Low-head pumped hydro storage: A review of applicable technologies for design, grid integration, control and modelling

To counteract a potential reduction in grid stability caused by rapidly growing share of intermittent renewable energy sources within our electrical grids, large scale deployment storage will become indispensable. Pumped hydro is widely regarded as the most cost-effective option for this. However, its application traditionally limited to certain topographic features. Expanding operating range low-head scenarios could unlock widespread regions where so far it has not yet been feasible. This review aims at giving multi-disciplinary insight on technologies that are applicable (2-30 m) pumped storage, terms design, integration, control, and modelling. A general overview historical development presented trends further innovation shift towards identified. Key drivers future technological economic challenges do discussed. Based these challenges, field reviewed specifically analysed regarding their fitness application. done pump turbine design configuration, electric machines well Further aspects integration Among conventional machines, found that, high-flow application, axial flow pump-turbines with variable speed drives suitable. Machines such Archimedes screws, counter-rotating rotary positive displacement reversible have emerge innovative solutions. Coupled flux permanent magnet synchronous motor-generators promising machines. ensure stability, grid-forming control alongside bulk capabilities providing synthetic inertia next other ancillary services required.