Increased development of intermittent renewable energy resources such as wind and solar are creating concern regarding the future stability and reliability of electric systems.

Today, pumped storage projects offer one of the few viable large-scale technologies for storing electrical energy and for providing dispatchable non-fossil fuel peaking power needed for power system stability and reliability.

Feasibility of pumped storage depends on many site-specific engineering and environmental factors as well as the proximity of the facility to major loads or the backbone of the power transmission system.  Many projects are being investigated, but only a few will get financed and built.

CAI provides clients with practical real-world experience in evaluating potential pumped storage projects.  We can help you to identify and evaluate the opportunities and the challenges that must be addressed.

Pumped Storage Expertise:

• Pumped-storage site selection and screening
• Specialty computer models for rapid sizing, evaluation and cost estimation for pumped storage developments
• Seismological and geological assessments for reservoirs and underground structures
• Specialist pump –turbine expertise including variable speed machines
• Comprehensive experience with design and construction of above--ground and underground hydraulic structures.

Representative Project Experience

• North Fork Payette River Pumped Storage Project, Consolidated Pumped Storage Inc., CT
• Hawaii Pumped Storage Investigations, Hawaii Electric Company, HI
• Maui  Pumped Storage Investigations, Maui  Electric Company, HI
• Middle Fork Project Pumped Storage, Placer County Water Agency, CA