Modernization of hydro pumped storage of Čierný Váh

ongoing

The project contributes to the implementation of the PCI 2.11 Modernisation of Pumped Hydroelectric Energy Storage in Čierny Váh (SK) [currently referred to as “SE Integrator”], which consists of an upgrade of the existing pumped hydro energy storage Čierny Váh along with a hybridization of the pumped storage plant by integrating new battery storage technology (up to 80 MW, 160 MWh). It includes the modernisation of two out of the six existing units for improved operational efficiency. The project’s objectives are to conduct studies and outline the technical specifications to modernize the power plant to variable speed and prepare for the large-scale battery storage and define a hybridization system to optimize the integration of the associated technologies. The project’s scope covers technical and financial feasibility studies, including inter alia market simulations, financial gap calculation, civil engineering, hydro, electro, battery energy storage system (BESS), hybridization and power-plant’s control systems, as well as the development of overall technical specifications for system integration. The project will be carried out by internal and external resources. The main deliverables are: • Final business plan completed; • Civil engineering studies completed; • Variable speed solution for turbines and pumps completed; • Electro studies completed; • Grid study for frequency converters and BESS completed; • Technical review on hybrid control system and interfaces evaluation completed; • Overall solution for system integration defined. Upon completion of this project, the PCI will be ready to enter the Final Investment Decision (FID) phase.