China water storage energy project

Does China have pumped storage projects?

Global map showing a concentration of planned pumped storage projects in China. In 2021, China released an ambitious plan to roll out pumped storage nationwide in an effort to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. China’s momentum has allowed it to surpass Europe’s capacity for pumped storage.

How big is China's pumped-storage capacity?

China’s pumped-storage capacity is set to increase even more, with 89 GW of capacity currently under construction. Developers are seeking governmental approvals, land rights, or financing for an additional 276 GW of pumped-storage projects, according to the data from Global Energy Monitor. Pumped storage is a type of energy storage.

Can pumped storage hydropower boost China's green energy transition?

Increasing pumped storage hydropower capacity is vital for promoting the green energy transition in China, responding to extreme situations and ensuring energy security, said Peng Caide, chief engineer with the China Renewable Energy Engineering Institute, a think tank under China's National Energy Administration.

Can China tap pumped storage hydropower capacity?

Peng said China has substantial potential to tap pumped storage hydropower capacity, as it only accounts for 1.4 percent of the country's power system, far behind the average of 10 percent in developed countries.

Why is China building pumped-storage hydropower facilities?

China is building pumped-storage hydropower facilities to increase the flexibility of the power grid and accommodate growing wind and solar power. As of May 2023, China had 50 gigawatts (GW) of operational pumped-storage capacity, 30% of global capacity and more than any other country.

Could pumped storage hydropower generate a multi-billion-dollar business in China?

With increasing use of wind and solar power in China, market prospects of pumped storage hydropower are more promising and could generate multi-billion dollar business, industry experts said.