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COP31: White paper urges governments to invest in water-based energy storage
COP31 white paper pushes governments to build water-based energy storage for grid stability.
In brief
COP31 white paper pushes governments to build water-based energy storage for grid stability. COP31 white paper urges governments to prioritize pumped-storage hydropower as strategic infrastructure for energy security and renewable expansion. Originally reported by Premium Times Nigeria.
COP31 white paper launch
A new international white paper launched at COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye urges governments to prioritize pumped-storage hydropower as strategic infrastructure for energy security and renewable expansion.
Developed with 60+ governments
The paper, developed with input from more than 60 governments and international agencies through the Global Alliance for Pumped Storage (GAPS), outlines seven policy recommendations for accelerating investment in the technology.
How pumped storage works
Pumped-storage hydropower uses surplus electricity to pump water from a lower reservoir to an upper reservoir. When electricity demand rises, the system releases stored water through turbines to generate electricity.
Advantages over batteries
Unlike conventional battery technologies, the system can store large amounts of energy for extended periods while also providing services that help maintain electricity grid stability.
Reducing energy dependence
The white paper argues that the technology could help countries reduce dependence on imported energy resources and strengthen domestic energy systems because it relies primarily on water, suitable geographical locations, and local labour.
Using existing infrastructure
It also notes that projects can be developed using existing reservoirs, lakes, hydropower infrastructure and former mining sites.
Seven policy recommendations
The paper identifies seven priority areas for governments: assessing national energy-storage needs, recognising pumped storage as strategic national security infrastructure, establishing clear legal definitions for energy storage, identifying suitable sites, simplifying permitting procedures, creating an…
Challenges to adoption
According to the paper, significant upfront investment, lengthy development timelines and site-specific preparation requirements have continued to limit the development of pumped-storage projects despite their established capabilities.
Energy security target
Under the COP31 Global Electrification Pledge, countries are seeking to increase electricity’s share of final energy consumption from about 23 per cent currently to 35 per cent by 2035.
Pumped storage benefits
It identifies pumped storage as one of the established technologies that can provide long-duration energy storage alongside other grid services, including frequency and voltage control, operating reserves, and black-start capabilities.
Malcolm Turnbull's view
President of the International Hydropower Association (IHA), Malcolm Turnbull, said countries seeking greater energy security and faster electrification could not afford to overlook the infrastructure required to support reliable electricity systems.
Long-term investment
The paper also highlights the potential economic benefits of pumped-storage projects, including employment opportunities through domestic resources and local labour.
Generational impact
It argues that their long operational lifespans could make them important infrastructure investments for countries seeking to strengthen their electricity systems over generations.
What happens next
Governments must create the necessary policy, regulatory and market conditions to attract investment while ensuring that projects meet environmental and social sustainability standards.
In short
COP31 white paper urges governments to prioritize pumped-storage hydropower as strategic infrastructure for energy security and renewable expansion.
