Can Innovation and Targeted Cost Reductions Encourage the Feasibility of Modular Pumped Storage Hydro (m-PSH) in the United States?

摘要

The slow pace of Pumped Storage Hydropower development in the US over the past twenty years has led to widespread interest in the feasibility and viability of alternative PSH designs, development schemes, and technologies. Since 2011, Oak Ridge National Lab has been exploring the economic viability of modular Pumped Storage Hydropower (m-PSH) development through targeted case studies, revenue simulations, and analysis of innovative configurations and designs. This paper outlines preliminary development and results of a scalable, comprehensive financial modeling tool designed to simulate costs and revenue streams for a variety of potential m-PSH projects and deployment scenarios. The tool will ultimately be used to explore and determine innovative research strategies that can improve the economic viability of m-PSH in US markets.