hydrokraftlagring

Hydrokraftlagring, often translated as pumped-storage hydroelectricity, is a type of energy storage system that uses electric power to pump water from a lower reservoir to an upper reservoir. When electricity is needed, the water is released from the upper reservoir back down to the lower reservoir through turbines, generating electricity. This process effectively stores potential energy in the form of gravitational potential energy of the water.

The primary function of hydrokraftlagring is to balance the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. During periods of high electricity generation and low demand, excess energy can be used to pump water uphill. Conversely, during periods of low generation and high demand, the stored water can be released to generate electricity, thus stabilizing the grid and ensuring a reliable power supply.

Hydrokraftlagring facilities typically consist of two reservoirs at different elevations, a powerhouse containing turbines and pumps, and tunnels or penstocks to connect the reservoirs. The efficiency of pumped-storage systems is generally high, with round-trip efficiencies often exceeding 70%. While the initial construction costs can be significant, the long lifespan and operational flexibility of these systems make them a valuable component of modern energy infrastructure. They are particularly effective for providing grid stability, frequency regulation, and peak load management.