Andrew Blaker published a piece in Renew Economy, in which he proposed a new form of peaking power that may surprise some. However, Andrew is an engineering prof at University of Australia, and so he knows his topic. In the article, he proposes teaming less expensive hydro pumped power with batteries, and doing away with peaking natural gas. This certainly ought to be a greener alternative too…
Powerful Logic Behind Hydro and Battery Plan
Andrew and two colleagues published a research paper on the Institute of Physics portal, on January 30, 2025. In this, they propose a model whereby they explore the possibility of harnessing the 800,000 untapped pumped hydro sites in Australia.
The team from University of Australia, explored a model for combining hydro pumped power and storage batteries, in a mutually beneficial way. To their minds, batteries receiving their charge from hydro stations are ideal for load balancing during normal grid operation. Whereas the dams are more suitable for peak demand power.
In an ideal world, we suppose this combination could theoretically provide all the energy we could ever need. It could also perhaps be cheaper and more environmentally friendly than building new conventional power stations too!
A Symbiotic Relationship Between Batteries and Hydro
But let’s set aside that somewhat remote possibility for now. Symbiosis describes a long term interaction between two species, each of which may benefit. The relationship between humans and pet dogs is a great example. The dogs receive food and shelter, while their owners have company and security.
This concept of symbiosis is clearly visible in Prof Andrew Blaker’s model. When the grid is in off-peak mode, some of the energy from the batteries pumps the hydro power water upstream to the top dam.
This water releases to the lower hydro dam during peak demand, generating extra energy for the grid. Some of this energy recharges the batteries. In this way, batteries and hydro have a symbiotic opportunity, to help resolve the climate crisis.
More Information
Hydro Global Battery Of The Future
Battery Hydro Hybrids – Untapped Opportunity
Preview Image: Batteries and Hydro Teamed
