The role of water pumps in energy storage equipment

How does pumped storage hydropower work?

PSH acts similarly to a giant battery, because it can store power and then release it when needed. The Department of Energy's "Pumped Storage Hydropower" video explains how pumped storage works. The first known use cases of PSH were found in Italy and Switzerland in the 1890s, and PSH was first used in the United States in 1930.

What is pumped storage hydropower (PSH)?

Pumped storage hydropower (PSH) is a type of hydroelectric energy storage. It is a configuration of two water reservoirs at different elevations that can generate power as water moves down from one to the other (discharge), passing through a turbine. The system also requires power as it pumps water back into the upper reservoir (recharge).

How does a water pump work?

Pumps driven by electric motor– generators move water from the lower to the upper basin, thereby storing potential energy. For electricity generation, the stored water flows back down through the pipes and into turbines, which drive generators that feed electricity into the power grid.

What is a pumped hydroelectric storage plant?

Pumped storage plants are technically suited to all existing energy markets. They balance power generation and consumption in the electricity system, provide system services and reserve capacity, are capable of black start, contribute to redispatch, and supply instantaneous reserve. Pumped hydroelectric storage is a fully mature technology.