Quebec is taking a new step in its transition to renewable energy by considering the construction of a pumped storage plant. This promising innovation paves the way for efficient storage of green energy, marking a major turning point in the management of our energy future. Let’s explore together the advances of this visionary initiative at the heart of the beautiful province.
Quebec is positioning itself as a leader in the field of renewable energy, continually seeking innovative ways to store and efficiently use this energy. One of the solutions being considered is the construction of a pumped storage plant (PSP), which would allow for the storage and delivery of up to 1,000 megawatts of electricity.
A Proven and Effective System
The PSP technology is not new and has been used for over a century. It involves connecting two reservoirs, one at the top of a dam and the other below it. When the upper reservoir is emptied, the falling water drives a turbine that produces electricity. Once the reservoir is depleted, the turbine reverses and pumps water to refill the upper reservoir.
This system is particularly interesting in the context of the growth of wind energy in Quebec. Given that the wind is not always available when needed, wind farms must be paired with a plant capable of providing consistent power or storing excess energy. The PSP offers an effective solution to meet these growing storage needs.
A Storage Capacity Tailored to Needs
The PSP has advantages over other energy storage systems, particularly in terms of rapid power release capacity. Indeed, it can return 70% to 80% of the stored energy, making it one of the most efficient storage technologies.
Normand Mousseau, scientific director of the Trottier Energy Institute at Polytechnique Montreal, emphasizes that regular use of the PSP is essential to maximize its profitability. Thus, for the project to be economically viable, the plant will need to operate nearly daily and not be limited to just a few days per year.
Flexibility in Construction Sites
The PSP also offers great flexibility regarding potential construction sites. It can be established on existing reservoirs as well as in deep mining craters, underground mine caverns, or mountainous locations. Researchers are also working to reduce the environmental impacts associated with these energy storage plants.
Where Will the First Quebec PSP Be Located?
The location of the first pumped storage plant in Quebec is still to be determined. However, some experts, such as Michel Sabourin, associate professor at the École de technologie supérieure (ETS), believe an ideal site could be Grande-3, located upstream from Robert-Bourassa in the James Bay area. The existing reservoirs in this location would make the project more feasible without requiring the construction of new electricity transport infrastructure over long distances.
In summary, the construction of a pumped storage plant in Quebec represents a significant advancement in the field of renewable energy storage. It will help meet the growing needs for storage and rapid power release related to the expansion of wind farms in the province. Additionally, the flexibility offered by the PSP in site selection is a major asset for this ambitious project.
