This project explores an innovative idea involving a floating reservoir technology option for closed-loop pumped storage hydropower (PSH) facility configurations. Constructing a conventional lower reservoir to achieve closed-loop status requires major civil works, including substantial blasting and excavating. Although closed-loop PSH is not continuously connected to a natural water body, it is usually sited near a river or lake to reduce the expense of the initial filling, and any necessary refilling, procedure. As such, initial construction activities can have numerous environmental impacts, which when coupled with the major civil works involved, constitutes a significant expense. To minimize these costs and prevent extensive environmental disturbances, an offshore lightweight floating membrane reservoir system that can be easily fabricated and transported to the site has been proposed.
