Mapping the potential for pumped-storage hydroelectricity (PSH) in Wallonia

Mission objectives

To identify the sites in Wallonia most suitable for the installation of pumped-storage power stations (PSPs) and to estimate their energy potential, with a view to supporting the integration of intermittent renewable energy sources, in particular wind and solar power, as part of the energy transition towards 2050.

Achievements and impact

• Definition of physical site selection criteria and identification of the technical, economic, environmental and regulatory constraints specific to Wallonia.
• Study of surface sites (natural areas with suitable topography, quarries, existing hydraulic structures): 414 sites of interest identified (including 17 priority sites selected, confirmed by site visits)
• Identification of cumulative potential (across the 17 priority sites): storage capacity of 3,800 MWh, equivalent to half that of the Coo power station; power output of 820 MW, almost equivalent to a single nuclear reactor unit.
• Development of a decision-support tool to plan scalable and responsive storage solutions