Oslo pumped hydro energy storage policy document

What is pumped hydro storage?

Pumped hydro storage is the world’s largest, most proven and cost-efficient long-duration electricity storage technology. It uses excess electricity during off-peak hours to pump water from a lower reservoir to an upper one. This stored energy can then be released by allowing the water to flow back down through turbines to generate electricity when demand is high.

What is pumped storage hydropower (PS)?

Pumped Storage Hydropower (PS) is the largest form of renewable energy storage, with nearly 200 GW installed capacity, providing more than 90% of all long duration energy storage across the world with more than 400 projects in operation.

When is water released in pumped hydro storage?

Water is released during peak demand periods. Water flows from the upper reservoir, downhill. As it moves, it passes through turbines to generate electricity. One of the key advantages of pumped hydro storage is its large-scale storage capacity.

Is pumped hydro storage a good investment in Scotland?

Pumped hydro storage, the most established long-duration energy storage technology, can be a good investment in Scotland. However, investing in this technology requires significant capital and has a long build time. SSE Renewables commissioned a report by Imperial Consultants to explore the benefits of new long-duration pumped hydro storage in Scotland.

When is excess electricity used in pumped hydro storage?

Pumped hydro storage uses excess electricity during off-peak hours. Long-duration electricity storage is an essential to achieve our net zero targets and pumped hydro storage is the world’s largest, most proven and cost-efficient technology.

Is pumped hydro storage key to our future success?

Pumped hydro storage is key to our future success, as evidenced by the UK Government's consultation in January 2024. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is exploring ways to unlock investment in long-duration electricity storage.