Evaluation of the feasibility and viability of modular pumped storage hydro (m-PSH) in the United States

Technical Report · Tue Sep 01 00:00:00 EDT 2015

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/1222573· OSTI ID:1222573

Witt, Adam M. ^[1]; Hadjerioua, Boualem ^[1]; Martinez, Rocio ^[1]; Bishop, Norm ^[1]

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1. Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)

The viability of modular pumped storage hydro (m-PSH) is examined in detail through the conceptual design, cost scoping, and economic analysis of three case studies. Modular PSH refers to both the compactness of the project design and the proposed nature of product fabrication and performance. A modular project is assumed to consist of pre-fabricated standardized components and equipment, tested and assembled into modules before arrival on site. This technology strategy could enable m-PSH projects to deploy with less substantial civil construction and equipment component costs. The concept of m-PSH is technically feasible using currently available conventional pumping and turbine equipment, and may offer a path to reducing the project development cycle from inception to commissioning.

• Research Organization: Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• DOE Contract Number: AC05-00OR22725
• OSTI ID: 1222573
• Report Number(s): ORNL/TM-2015/559; WC0100000; CEWW099
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English