At the end of 2023, China took another step towards strengthening its position in the field of renewable energy. The State Grid Corporation of China commissioned the world’s largest pumped storage power plant (PSPP) with a capacity of 3.6 GW. This giant facility is located in Fengning County, Hebei Province, and has become an important element of the country’s energy infrastructure.

Project scale

Capacity: 3.6 GW (12 reversible pumping units of 300 MW each).

Storage capacity: 6.612 billion kWh.

Investment: 19.2 billion yuan (about 3 billion US dollars).

Construction period: Since 2014.

What is a PSPP for?

Pumped storage hydroelectric power plants play a key role in stabilizing power systems, especially in the context of the growing share of variable energy sources such as solar and wind. Pumped storage hydroelectric power plants operate on the principle of a “battery”:
At night or during periods of excess energy, water is pumped into an upper reservoir.
During the day or during peak hours, the water is released into a lower reservoir, generating electricity.

Olympic context

The launch of the plant was timed to coincide with the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. The pumped storage hydroelectric power plant was part of China’s efforts to supply the Games with green energy, in line with its stated goals to reduce its carbon footprint.

Technological features

Grid connection: The pumped storage hydroelectric power plant is integrated into the power grid of Northern China via a high-voltage direct current (VSC-HVDC) transmission system. This allows for efficient transmission of electricity over long distances with minimal losses.

Green: Unlike traditional hydropower plants, pumped storage plants do not require the construction of large reservoirs, reducing their environmental impact.

Significance for China and the world

Grid stabilization: Pumped storage plants will help China cope with peak loads and integrate more renewable energy sources.

Reduced emissions: Pumped storage plants reduce dependence on coal-fired power plants, which is especially important for China, the world’s largest emitter of CO₂.
Tech breakthrough: The project demonstrates China’s leadership in energy innovation.

What’s next?

China continues to invest in pumped storage technology, with new pumped storage plants already under construction that will be even more powerful and efficient. This project is not only an important step for China, but also an example for other countries pursuing energy transition.

Pumped storage plants like the Fengning plant are more than just infrastructure. They are the key to a sustainable energy future.