Integrating Cascade Pumped Micro-Hydro Storage: A Sustainable Approach to Energy and Water Management

TL;DR

This paper proposes a cascade-pumped micro-hydro storage system that uses intermediate reservoirs to enable efficient energy storage and transfer in geographically constrained areas, enhancing renewable energy potential.

Contribution

It introduces a novel CPMHS system leveraging natural lakes and intermediate reservoirs, with an optimization framework validated through case studies in challenging terrains.

Findings

Demonstrates energy efficiency of CPMHS in case studies

Shows viability of micro-hydro in constrained geographies

Provides a practical implementation methodology

Abstract

As traditional large hydropower has been extensively exploited, micro-hydro systems have caught research increasing interest. New engineering challenges arise in developing micro-hydro systems in areas with significant elevation but prohibitive horizontal distances between primary reservoirs. This study addresses these challenges by proposing a cascade-pumped micro-hydro storage (CPMHS) system that leverages intermediate reservoirs to bridge long horizontal distances, enabling efficient energy transfer and storage. The methodology utilizes naturally occurring lakes with substantial head heights but limited feasibility for direct pumped storage due to horizontal separations. Integrating smaller, strategically placed intermediate reservoirs maximizes energy capture along the cascading path, making pumped storage viable in geographically constrained locations. The proposed system will enhance energy generation potential and provide additional benefits for water management. Using geographical data and a detailed case study focused on Mountain Lake and surrounding lakes, this paper demonstrates the energy efficiency and viability of cascade-based micro-hydro storage. A practical methodology for implementing CPMHS systems is proposed and validated by case studies. An optimization framework is developed for efficient energy capture in regions with challenging topography.