Building integrated pumped-storage potential on a city scale: An analysis based on geographic information systems. (1st March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jurasz, Jakub; Piasecki, Adam; Hunt, Julian; Zheng, Wandong; Ma, Tao; Kies, Alexander
• Is Part Of: Energy. Volume 242(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-03-01
• Subjects: Energy storage -- Small-scale pumped-storage -- Potential capacity -- GIS-Supported energy studies -- Building integrated pumped-storage; Power resources -- Periodicals; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy consumption -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2021.122966
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-5442

Abstract

Abstract: Energy storage is essential for the successful transformation of the existing power system to one based on variable renewable energy sources. The portfolio of existing possible storage technologies at a given location within the power system is often severely constrained by a multitude of factors. Therefore, there is a need to explore the potential of thus-far neglected and uncharted territories. The prefeasibility study presented in this article addresses the theoretical potential of small-scale pumped-storage stations located in urban areas and utilizing height differences provided by built infrastructure (buildings). Geographic information system tools are applied for a selected case study (Toruń, Poland). The results revealed that a city with a population of 200 000 has a hosting capacity for small-scale pumped storage of slightly over 19 MWh or 11.3 MWh if stricter building selection criteria are considered. The article also provides a preliminary discussion of a concept of several buildings with pumped-storage upper tanks that share the same lower reservoir and estimates the role of such storage in covering city lighting needs. The discussion section is based partially on strengths-weaknesses-opportunities-threats analysis highlights the concept's main limitations and some future research directions. Highlights: Proposes a method for city integrated pumped-storage potential estimation. Estimates the storage potential for a city of 200 000 people to be 19.2 MWh. If discharged once a day could deliver 6.4 GWh (0.9% of city energy demand). Economic performance depends mainly on building height and density.