The Connecting Europe Facility for Energy (CEF Energy) announced funding exceeding EUR 2.1 million to support the modernization of the Čierny Váh pumped hydro energy storage plant in Slovakia. This initiative, managed by Slovenské elektrárne a.s., is part of the Project of Common Interest (PCI) titled “Modernisation of Pumped Hydroelectric Energy Storage in Čierny Váh.”
Over the next two years, the project will focus on upgrading two of the plant’s six units with variable-speed turbines. This upgrade aims to boost the plant’s efficiency and performance. Additionally, the project will design a hybridization system that integrates a large-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) with a capacity of up to 80 MW and 160 MWh.
This project marks a pioneering effort in Europe by combining traditional pumped hydro storage with battery storage technology. The studies will include technical specifications for hybridization, financial assessments, and detailed designs for various systems, including hydro, electro-mechanical, civil engineering, and digital controls.
By integrating these technologies, the project seeks to improve the flexibility and efficiency of the Slovak electricity grid. It also aims to facilitate the exchange of balancing energy across borders, benefiting neighboring countries like Hungary, Poland, and the Czech Republic.
The combination of pumped hydro and battery storage is vital for decarbonizing the EU economy. It aims to optimize grid flexibility, lower system costs, and enhance the use of renewable energy. Upon completion, this project will provide advanced grid regulation services and contribute to market efficiency.
With CEF Energy’s backing, the Čierny Váh modernization project is on track to reach the Final Investment Decision (FID) phase. This initiative highlights the EU’s focus on developing sustainable energy infrastructure that promotes competitiveness and accelerates the transition to a carbon-neutral economy. More details about the project can be found on the promoter’s website.
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