Why should we study pumped storage systems in Nepal Himalayas?

Nepal Himalayas provide an ideal testbed to study pumped storage systems given high topographic gradients, large flow fluctuations, and prevalent energy demand patterns.

Where are the most exploitable storage sites in Nepal?

We observed that the most technically feasible locations (greater than 0.1 GWh, shown in green squares in Fig. 4) were located in the northeast region of the country. Only one exploitable site was found with a larger storage capacity, i.e., 0.3 GWh (between Begnas and Rupa Lakes in Northeast Nepal).

Can pumped storage hydropower be used in Nepal?

In this study, we assess the potential of pumped storage hydropower across Nepal, a central Himalayan country, under multiple configurations by pairing lakes, rivers, and available flat terrains. We then identify technically feasible pairs from those of potential locations.

Can a geospatial model predict energy storage capacity across the Nepal Himalayas?

In this study, we configured a geospatial model to identify the potential of PSH across the Nepal Himalayas under multiple configurations by pairing lakes, hydropower projects, rivers, and available flat terrain, and consequently estimate the energy storage capacity.

Is pumped storage hydropower feasible in the Himalayas?

We show that 42% of the theoretical potential of 3000 GWh is technically feasible. We find the flat land-to-river configuration more promising than other configurations. Our findings provide insight into the potential of pumped storage hydropower and are of practical importance in planning sustainable power systems in the Himalayas and beyond.

Can solar PV be integrated with pumped hydro storage in Nepal?

Integrating Solar PV with Pumped hydro storage in Nepal: A case study of Sisneri-Kulekhani pump storage project Hydropower Development in Nepal - Climate Change, Impacts and Implications Mool PK, Wangda D, Bajracharya SR, Kunzang K, Raj Gurung D, Joshi SP.