Abandoned mine pumping energy storage

Can pumped storage be used in abandoned mines?

Many countries in the world have already begun to study the pumped storage of underground reservoirs in abandoned mines. For example, in 2011, the Niedersachsen State Energy Research Institute in Germany planned to use the Grund abandoned gold mine roadway in Upper Harz region to build an all-underground pumped storage power station [ 62 ].

How can a pumped storage power station be used in abandoned mines?

Form a pumped storage power station as the core, and build an integrated base for diesel power generation, gas power generation, and photovoltaic power generation in abandoned mines to provide power protection for production and life ( Figure 7 ). Figure 7. Integrated development. 5.2.2. Full Development of Regions Adjacent to Abandoned Mine Shafts

Can underground space energy storage technology be used in abandoned coal mines?

The underground space resources of abandoned coal mines in China are quite abundant, and the research and development of underground space energy storage technology in coal mines have many benefits.

Can decommissioned mines be repurposed into underground pumped storage facilities?

Based on the study “Enhancing electrical grid and community resilience through repurposing decommissioned mines into underground pumped storage facilities” and funded by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, the “PUSHing for Storage” report was issued in April 2022.

Are underground pumped storage power plants a viable solution?

Therefore, Underground Pumped Storage Power Plants (UPSP), as first introduced in the early 20th century by Fessenden [ 11 ], offer a viable solution that capitalizes on the utilization of abandoned underground spaces and effectively circumvents topographical constraints and limitations associated with surface footprint [ 5, 12 ].

Why do coal mines need pumped-storage power stations?

The topology of coal mines makes them particularly well matched to the needs of pumped-storage power stations—the most widespread and advanced method of storing electricity and adjusting voltages ( 11 ). Hydropower plants require underground space and water, both of which already exist in abandoned mines.