Revealing the hidden potential of decentralised hydraulic storage in Switzerland
Pumped storage is currently the most efficient and economical electricity storage solution in the world, accounting for almost 96 % of global storage capacity. In Switzerland, there are 20 large-scale facilities with a total installed capacity of around 4.1 GW. However, with the massive development of photovoltaic energy, electric mobility and heat pumps, needs are evolving towards more efficient storage solutions. local, flexible storage solutions tailored to distribution networks. An analysis of distribution network operators (DSOs) revealed a need for this type of storage with a capacity of 60 MWh distributed on the network.
The HiDeStor project aims to :
- Identify the hidden potential small and medium-sized pumped storage turbines (MS-PHS)
- Give priority to existing hydraulic infrastructures (irrigation reservoirs, artificial snow, drinking water, natural lakes, etc.)
- Assess theoretical, technical and economic potential
- Provide a coherent national map of Switzerland's potential
HiDeStor is based on an approach structured into five Work Packages:
- Identifying the needs of stakeholders (DSOs, utilities, public services)
- Update of existing inventories (Vaud, Valais)
- Extension to five more cantons
- Technical and economic evaluation
- Extrapolation of potential on a national scale
A geospatial approach based on graph theory was used to systematically identify pairs of reservoirs throughout Switzerland.
The project identified :
- 27 sites in 7 cantons
- The technical potential of 895 MWh, tailored to the needs identified
- A competitive LCOS of around 0.08 CHF/kW
A national extrapolation based on geospatial analysis estimates a theoretical potential of around 1.7 GWh for the whole of Switzerland. HiDeStor is therefore the first coherent national mapping of decentralised hydraulic storage potential in Switzerland.
HiDeStor demonstrates that small and medium-sized pumped storage power plants :
- Promote the integration of solar and wind power
- Reinforce the stability of distribution networks
- Efficient complement to batteries (higher capacity, longer life, high power)
- Contribute to the objectives of the 2050 Energy Strategy
