The Importance of Reversible Hydroelectric Power Plants for Energy Supply

With the growing energy demand and the transition to intermittent renewable sources such as solar and wind, the Brazilian electrical system faces the challenge of ensuring stability and reliability in energy supply, especially during peak hours. In this context, reversible hydroelectric power plants, also known as pumped-storage systems, emerge as a strategic solution to balance supply and demand.

Reversible hydroelectric plants operate with two reservoirs at different altitudes. During periods of low demand or excess generation (such as at night or on very sunny days), surplus energy is used to pump water from the lower reservoir to the upper one. During peak consumption times, this water is released to generate electricity, just like a conventional hydroelectric plant.

Site selection is one of the most important aspects of the project, as it directly influences its efficiency and cost. It involves various technical and logistical factors, including the selection of the most suitable equipment and environmental feasibility, with the possibility of operating in anthropized areas.

This system functions like a water battery, storing potential energy that can be quickly converted into electricity when needed. The energy efficiency of these plants can exceed 70%, making them one of the most effective forms of large-scale energy storage.

During peak hours, which usually occur in the early evening when residential and commercial consumption is highest, the electrical system needs generation sources that can be quickly activated. Reversible plants perfectly meet this need, as they can start operating within minutes, stabilizing the grid and preventing overloads or blackouts.

Furthermore, with the advancement of intermittent renewable sources such as solar (which generates during the day) and wind (which depends on wind speed), the system requires compensation mechanisms. Reversible plants act as regulators of variability, storing energy when there is excess and releasing it when there is scarcity.

Although they involve significant investments, these plants offer important environmental benefits. They allow greater integration of clean sources into the system, reducing dependence on fossil fuel-powered thermal plants, which are more polluting and expensive.

From an economic standpoint, they contribute to tariff affordability by avoiding the activation of thermal plants during peak hours, which increases energy costs. They also reduce the need to expand generation infrastructure by optimizing the use of already available energy.

In Brazil, the potential for implementing reversible plants is significant, especially in regions with favorable terrain and existing reservoirs. However, there are still regulatory, environmental, and financial challenges that need to be overcome to make these projects viable on a large scale.

With technological advancement and the growing need for sustainable energy storage solutions, reversible plants are expected to gain ground in Brazil’s energy matrix, contributing to a more resilient, clean, and efficient system.