A Prototype Model for Pumped Hydro Storage of Off-Grid <10KW Photovoltaic and Wind-Energy

[摘要] Through hands-on experimentation and spreadsheet modeling, this project examines the potential of pumped-hydro storage of renewable energy sources as potentially being more cost effective than standard lead-acid and lithium-ion battery storage systems. The research question addressed is whether a gravity fed water storage system a feasible, more cost effective and more sustainable storage solution for small (<10kW) photovoltaic and wind renewable off-grid energy hybrid systems in comparison to more traditional battery storage systems? I hypothesize with adequate sizing, an uphill gravity storage system will be more cost effective over a 30-year period, than a lead-acid battery (or other battery) storage system for an off-grid hybrid solar and wind energy production system.After calculating the energy requirements for my 20-acre off-grid homestead in north-east Washington state, experiments were conducted to determine the most cost effective and energy efficient means of solar and wind renewable energy production.Three different renewable energy storage systems including lead-acid battery, lithium-ion battery and pumped-hydro storage were also experimented on to changing variables to determine the most cost effective and energy efficient means of energy storage.Through my analysis, I determined that a gravity fed pumped-hydro storage system for renewable energies is more cost effective than traditional battery storage systems as well as more cost-effective than tying into the traditional local utility grid system due to the remoteness of my homestead location.This spreadsheet model has the potential to be used on a situational basis to determine the potential cost-effectiveness of government subsidized renewable energy projects in lieu of standard grid connectedness for remote communities.

[发布机构] University:Havard University;Department:Sustainability

[效力级别] Renewable

[关键词] RES;Renewable;Energy;Storage;PHS;PV;Wind;Pumped-Hydro;Solar