Overview
Pumped storage hydropower is widely recognized as an efficient and long-term electricity storage solution to balance power systems. It stores energy by using surplus electricity or electricity generated during off-peak periods to pump water to an upper reservoir (energy storage phase) and then releasing water from the upper reservoir to a lower reservoir to drive turbines and generate electricity (energy generation phase).
The water is then pumped back to the upper reservoir, and this closed-loop cycle is repeated. The process both generates and stores electricity. The electricity generated is supplied to the grid during peak demand periods or when there is a shortage of power. Due to its primary function to store electricity, pumped storage hydropower is also referred to as a “water battery.”
