Pumped hydro stores excess energy generated during times of high energy generation, such as mid-day solar, and releases it during periods of high demand, often in the evening.

Through the use of two reservoirs at different elevations, water is pumped from the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir when there is a surplus in power generation.

When demand increases, water is released back to the lower reservoir, spinning turbines and generating electricity. This process effectively supports renewable energy storage, as solar and wind energy generation can be intermittent and difficult to predict.

By effectively storing excess renewable energy, pumped hydro energy helps to stabilise national electricity networks, support energy security, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.