ASSESSMENT OF THE POTENTIAL OF PUMPED STORAGE POWER PLANTS IN UZBEKISTAN TAKING INTO ACCOUNT ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

Abstract

Under conditions of a growing share of renewable energy sources (RES) and a shortage of regulating capacity in the power system of Uzbekistan, pumped storage power plants (PSPP) are regarded as a strategic solution for increasing the reliability and stability of the electricity supply. The aim of the present study is to assess the technical and economic, environmental and geographical preconditions for introducing PSPPs in the arid conditions of Uzbekistan. The results show that PSPPs with a capacity of 400-800 MW, an efficiency of 72-85 % and a service life of up to 80 years provide the minimum storage cost (0.05-0.13 USD/kWh), reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 12 million tonnes by 2035 and make it possible to save up to 1.6 billion m³ of natural gas annually. The conclusions confirm the expediency of including PSPPs in the national energy strategy as a key element of the low-carbon transition and of increasing the energy security of Uzbekistan. An adapted model for calculating the efficiency of PSPPs taking into account evaporation, seismic risks and water scarcity is proposed.