Pumped Hydro - Industrial Scale Energy Storage
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The Rise of Pumped Hydro Power Storage Systems
The history of pumped hydro power storage (PHPS) systems is a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing natural resources for energy needs. This chapter explores the origins, development, and current state of PHPS technology around the world.
Origins and Early Development
The concept of pumped storage hydroelectricity dates back to the late 19th century. The first known applications emerged in Italy and Switzerland in the 1890s, marking the beginning of this innovative energy storage solution. However, it wasn't until 1907 that the first pumped storage facility, Engeweiher, was constructed near Schaffhausen, Switzerland.
The technology made its way to the United States in 1930 when the Connecticut Electric and Power Company implemented a pumped storage system near New Milford, Connecticut. This pioneering project utilized a large reservoir, pumping water from the Housatonic River to a storage reservoir 70 meters above.
Technological Advancements
A significant breakthrough came in the 1930s with the introduction of reversible hydroelectric turbines. These versatile machines could function both as turbine generators and as electric motor-driven pumps, greatly enhancing the efficiency of PHPS systems.
The period between 1960 and 1990 saw a surge in the construction of pumped storage plants in the United States, with nearly half of the current pumped storage capacity built during the 1970s[1]. This boom was largely driven by the oil crises of the early 1970s, which highlighted the need for alternative energy storage solutions.
Global Adoption and Current Capacity
Today, PHPS systems are widely used across the globe, with several countries investing heavily in this technology:
China: Leading the world with 50.9 gigawatts (GW) of pumped storage capacity as of 2023
Japan: Second globally with approximately 21.8 GW of capacity.
United States: Third with 16.7 GW of capacity
Other notable countries with significant PHPS capacity include Spain, Italy, and Germany.
Geographical Requirements and Popularity
PHPS systems require specific geographical features to be viable. Ideal locations have significant elevation differences and access to water sources. Countries with mountainous regions or varied topography are particularly well-suited for PHPS implementation.
Despite these geographical constraints, PHPS remains the most common type of energy storage globally. In the United States, it accounts for 96% of all utility-scale energy storage[8]. The technology's popularity stems from its ability to provide large-scale storage capacity and rapid response to grid demands.
Future Prospects
The future of PHPS looks promising, with many countries planning expansions:
- China is constructing an additional 89 GW of pumped storage capacity.
- Australia has 15 GW of pumped storage under construction or in development.
- The United States has potential to more than double its current PHPS capacity.
As the world transitions to renewable energy sources, the role of PHPS in grid stabilization and energy storage is likely to grow, cementing its place as a crucial component of modern energy systems.
Note: At Energy Intelligence we look at the long arc of energy storage to develop our solutions and strategies.