Could a pumped hydroelectric facility be a viable option for New Zealand?

The New Zealand government will further investigate the viability of establishing a pumped hydroelectric facility on the South Island that would provide up to 8.5 TWh of annual generation and storage capacity to support the nation’s transition to 100% renewable electricity generation. Lake Onslow is a man-made lake near Roxburgh in central Otago.

How big is pumped storage hydropower in 2021?

Worldwide, pumped storage hydropower has been ramping up. In 2021, 4.7GW capacity was added, up from 1.5GW in 2020. If it continues, the Onlow project will be one of the largest PSH schemes in the world, adding up to 1.5GW of generation capacity. The proposed scale of the Onslow project requires a considerable investment – at least NZ$4 billion.

What is the importance of hydro power in New Zealand?

Hydro power provides nearly 60% of all electricity and the large hydro power plants on New Zealand’s major rivers (Waikato, Waitaki and Clutha) provide the power system with great strength and reliability. Hydro resources also provide the majority of renewable energy storage, with a large proportion held in lakes Pukakai and Tekapo.

Will there be more large hydro power schemes in New Zealand?

New Zealand has significant untapped hydro resources , however it is unlikely that there will be more large hydro power schemes constructed due to environmental opposition . To ensure that power system stability is maintained, while increasing demand and variable generation will require increasing controllable loads and generation.

Is there a pumped hydro storage project in Central Otago?

This analysis will mostly focus on a pumped hydro storage project at Lake Onslow in Central Otago, but will also include the assessment of smaller potential pumped storage options in the North Island, as well as other alternative technologies.

What is the NZ battery project?

But the national electricity system depends heavily on the fluctuating storage capacity of hydropower lakes, which makes the country prone to energy shortages during dry years. The NZ Battery Project aims to address this. One of the options being investigated is the Onslow pumped storage hydropower (PSH) scheme.