Pumped storage key to meeting green power aims

A significant number of pumped storage projects are expected to be operational by around 2028, effectively addressing the mismatch between low levels of power generated from renewable energy and high installed capacity volume, and further promoting renewable energy as a primary power source, said Zhang Yiguo, deputy head of the China Renewable Energy Engineering Institute.

The latest report from the CREEI indicated that last year, renewable energy accounted for 84.9 percent of newly increased installed capacity but only 32 percent of electricity generation, with wind and solar only contributing a combined 15 percent of total generation.

Experts said a primary reason for this is low generation hours due to the intermittency and variability of renewable energy sources. The commissioning of numerous pumped storage hydropower projects, combined with the development of new energy storage technologies and advances in the grid network, are expected to significantly improve the overall situation.