Exploring the potential for new pumped storage power

Fortum has initiated a two-year feasibility study for new pumped storage power in Sweden. This involves thorough examination of the commercial, technological, environmental and regulatory conditions in three areas. Fortum's starting point is that new pumped storage should contribute to a reliable power system, meet environmental criteria and be economically viable.

Geographic focus in Lekstjärnen at Trängslet in Dalarna County, Bastvålen and Höljessjön, both in Värmland County. These areas meet many of the criteria required for a pumped storage plant. In Finland, Fortum’s associated company Kemijoki Oy is exploring pumped storage hydro power plants in northern Finland.

Objective

The objective of the feasibility study is to provide reliable clean energy and drive decarbonisation in industries in the Nordic countries, to contribute to a successful energy transition that supports the competitiveness in the Nordic region.

The volatility in the power market will increase as the share of weather-dependent renewables increases in the energy system. The role of flexible solutions, such as flexible pumped hydro storage, is crucial in the energy system to meet the electricity demand, balance the energy system and to mitigate short-term changes in demand.

Implementation

During the feasibility study, Fortum will explore the many aspects and requirements for pumped storage power plants. Fortum will also investigate how the capacity of pumped storage plants can strengthen Nordic energy independence and support a secure energy supply. The feasibility study will take approximately 2 years.

How a pumped storage power plant work

Fortum's existing pumped storage power plants

Eggsjön Power Plant

Location: Torsby Municipality

Commissioned: 1957

Capacity: Head of 18 m, 0.6 MW, generates approximately 0.5 GWh/year

Letten Power Plant

Location: Torsby Municipality

Commissioned: 1956

Capacity: Head of 191 m, 36 MW, generates approximately 65 GWh/year

The Letten power plant is designed for seasonal storage and is operated more frequently today. It has separate pumps and turbines and is manually operated to switch between pumping and power generation.

Kymmen Power Plant

Location: Norsälven, Sunne Municipality

Commissioned: 1986

Capacity: Head of 88 m, pumping capacity of 53 MW, generates approximately 47 GWh/year

Description: The Kymmen power plant consists of a reservoir, Lake Kymmen, and a pumped storage power plant in the mountain. The power plant is highly flexible and can respond to price signals, offering flexibility over various time periods, from seconds to days.