Use of pumped-storage hydroelectricity to compensate for the inherent and unavoidable variability of wind energy

Abstract

This study investigates the benefits of using pumped-storage hydroelectricity (PSH) as an intermediary between wind turbines and power grid. The approach includes a simulation model and the development of PSH potential estimation. The system sizing was done based on 1985–2014. Potential sites for PSH plants were identified for two provinces of Northern Poland. According to the proposed mathematical model, a simulation of wind-powered PSH was performed for the year 2015. From the obtained results we find that the proposed power unit is capable of ensuring dispatchable energy generation.