More than 55 governments and international bodies worldwide have backed a new framework, aimed at expediting the adoption of pumped storage hydropower, deemed critical for clean energy systems.
The Global Alliance for Pumped Storage (GAPS), established at COP29 in Baku, announced the formal adoption of the GAPS Principles at the International Forum on Pumped Storage in Paris, France.
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The GAPS Principles reaffirm the vital role of pumped storage hydropower in creating “sustainable, flexible and secure” energy systems and supporting a “climate resilient future”.
Often referred to as ‘water batteries’, pumped storage accounts for more than 90% of global electricity storage capacity, enabling the absorption of excess clean power from sources such as solar and wind while enhancing grid resilience.
The framework outlines a pathway for governments to improve power system flexibility, decarbonise energy markets, foster economic growth, and promote international cooperation and innovation in sustainable energy storage.
The GAPS Governing Principles focus on recognising pumped storage as essential for clean energy, highlighting its role in bolstering grid flexibility, and identifying its relevance in “affordable” clean energy generation.
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By GlobalDataAdditional principles highlight the technology’s dual role in climate mitigation and adaptation, encouraging investments to drive economic growth and job creation, and promoting GAPS as a platform for best practices, innovation, and leadership.
The framework also advocates for long-duration energy storage targets, government support, public-private partnerships, workforce development, skills transfer and aligning projects with international sustainability standards.
GAPS chair and former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said: “I am delighted to endorse these Principles. They are a clear signal of the Alliance’s commitment to supporting innovative policies and regulations for pumped storage, while also encouraging investment. It is governments who must act to set the pathway for the successful adoption of this technology.
“Only with strong policy and leadership can we unlock pumped storage at the scale needed for a safer, cleaner and more resilient energy future.”
