1. What is Pumped Hydro Power?

Pumped hydro storage is a method of energy storage that uses water reservoirs at different elevations to generate electricity. During periods of low demand, excess electricity is used to pump water to the higher reservoir, which is then released to generate power when needed.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pumped hydro power equation:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power output (kW)
• \( \rho \) — Water density (typically 1000 kg/m³)
• \( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²)
• \( Q \) — Flow rate (m³/s)
• \( H \) — Head height (meters)
• \( \eta \) — System efficiency (0.7-0.85 typical)

Explanation: The equation calculates the theoretical power available from falling water, accounting for system losses through the efficiency factor.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for designing pumped hydro systems, estimating energy storage capacity, and evaluating project feasibility.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter water density (typically 1000 kg/m³), flow rate in cubic meters per second, head height in meters, and system efficiency (0-1). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is typical efficiency for pumped hydro systems?
A: Modern systems typically achieve 70-85% round-trip efficiency (pumping and generation combined).

Q2: How does head height affect power output?
A: Power output is directly proportional to head height - doubling the head doubles the power output.

Q3: What flow rates are typical for pumped hydro?
A: Large systems may have flow rates of 100-500 m³/s, while smaller systems might be 1-10 m³/s.

Q4: Can this be used for other hydro systems?
A: Yes, the same equation applies to conventional hydroelectric systems, though efficiency factors may differ.

Q5: How does water temperature affect calculations?
A: Warmer water is slightly less dense (about 2% less at 30°C vs 10°C), which marginally reduces power output.