Volts
What's the deal with pumped-hydro energy storage?
Jan 22, 2025
Erik Steimle, Chief Development Officer at Rye Development, shares his insights into closed-loop pumped-hydro energy storage systems. He explains how these innovative projects use artificial reservoirs to provide long-duration storage without harming natural waterways. The discussion highlights the economic potential, longevity, and efficiency of pumped-hydro compared to lithium-ion batteries. Steimle also addresses regulatory challenges, community engagement, and recent bipartisan support aiming to streamline permitting for these crucial renewable energy initiatives.
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Quick takeaways
- Closed-loop pumped-hydro systems utilize two artificial reservoirs, offering reliable long-duration energy storage without impacting natural waterways.
- While upfront costs of pumped hydro exceed a billion dollars, their longevity of over 100 years ensures lower overall lifecycle costs.
Deep dives
Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Basics
Pumped hydro energy storage serves as a crucial technology for balancing renewable energy sources like solar and wind on the grid. It operates by pumping water uphill during times of excess energy, then releasing it downhill through turbines to generate electricity when demand is higher. This method effectively acts as a large battery, providing longer duration storage beyond the capabilities of lithium-ion batteries, which typically last around ten hours. The recent interest lies in closed-loop pumped hydro systems, which utilize two artificial reservoirs instead of relying on natural rivers and dams, vastly expanding potential locations for such projects.
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