Identification of pumped storage hydropower site by considering existing structures for better natural resources management

Energy demand, peak energy demand is ever increasing due to the increase in population, infrastructure development and industrialization. Use of intermittent renewable energy resources and energy storage systems becomes essential for effective use of energy sources and for development of any region. Hydropower is the oldest and one of the most important renewable energy resources for electrical power production worldwide. Water resource management, hydropower potential and socioeconomic issues are essential components to consider during planning phase. This article discusses identification of pumped storage hydropower sites by considering existing structures including existing dams and water harvesting structures in the study area. In the study area, various basins and combinations have been analyzed for upper and lower reservoirs using Geographic Information Systems techniques in engineering, economic, and environmental perspective. This study identifies seven pumped-storage hydroelectric power sites as their natural geographical features. Three suitable sites are identified and analyzed with specific exiting structures of the study area for setting up pumped storage hydropower plant.