PV-pumped energy storage option for convalescing performance of hydroelectric station under declining precipitation trend

The precipitation trend is critically important for functioning of hydroelectric power stations and development of irrigation sector. Studies indicate that freshwater availability in many river basins in India is likely to decrease due to climate change. Despite having promising hydro potential in north-eastern (N-E) region of India, decline in rainfall in the region causes paucity of water in various hydro power plants' reservoirs. Many units of hydroelectric projects are being kept off and as a result, generation comes down to a large extent. As a partial solution to the problem, many such small hydroelectric projects' may be revived by integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) powered pumped storage unit as there is synergy of solar energy with irrigation water pumping and hydro power station. The present study aims to looking at reliable, continuous and cost-competitive power supply option. The study has been conceived with the lone hydroelectric power station of Tripura (one of the N-E states of India) which practically remains inoperative as water is hardly available at the end of the year and before next monsoon. Results substantiate that PV powered pumped storage is a viable option for restoring the steady annual performance of the hydroelectric plant. (C) 2018 Published by Elsevier Ltd.