The Helms Pumped Storage station here in California operates under those principles you mentioned. During high load times, the upper reservoir drains to the lower and generating electricity using a turbine / generator. When the load is low (and electricity is cheaper), the water is then pumped back up to start the process again. This also creates a net money gain for the company.
This station was at least partially constructed in order to be the off-peak load for the company's nuclear power plant (where I work), which usually runs at full capacity regardless of grid demands.
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Calcifer @ Jun 28th 2008 1:39AM
The Helms Pumped Storage station here in California operates under those principles you mentioned. During high load times, the upper reservoir drains to the lower and generating electricity using a turbine / generator. When the load is low (and electricity is cheaper), the water is then pumped back up to start the process again. This also creates a net money gain for the company.
This station was at least partially constructed in order to be the off-peak load for the company's nuclear power plant (where I work), which usually runs at full capacity regardless of grid demands.