What are the differences between pumped hydro and battery storage?

What are the differences between pumped hydro and battery storage?

Pumped hydro storage uses gravitational potential energy, while batteries store energy chemically. Both serve to balance supply and demand.

Which one is more efficient?

Pumped hydro typically has an efficiency of about 70-90%, while lithium-ion batteries can reach around 80-90% efficiency.

What are the environmental impacts of each?

Pumped hydro can disrupt local ecosystems and requires significant water resources, while battery production can involve mining and chemical waste.

Which technology is better for large-scale energy storage?

Pumped hydro is often preferred for large-scale storage due to its capacity and longevity, but batteries are improving rapidly.

What are the costs associated with each?

Pumped hydro has high initial infrastructure costs but low operational costs, while battery costs are decreasing but can be high for large capacities.