Recently, the term "pumped-storage hydropower" is actually and appropriately discussed in the context of which one of the following ?
- (a) Irrigation of terraced crop fields
- (b) Lift irrigation of cereal crops
- (c) Long duration energy storage ✓ UPSC's answer
- (d) Rainwater harvesting system
Why the answer is (c)
• Pumped-storage hydropower uses two reservoirs at different heights: when electricity is cheap or surplus (e.g. midday solar), water is pumped uphill; when demand peaks, it is released through turbines to generate power.
• It is thus a giant rechargeable battery and the world's largest form of long-duration energy storage, essential for balancing variable solar and wind — option (c).
• India has identified over 100 GW of pumped-storage potential and projects like Pinnapuram (Andhra Pradesh) and Kadamparai (Tamil Nadu) are examples.
• It is not an irrigation or rainwater-harvesting technique, even though it involves water and reservoirs.
• Hence option (c).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) Irrigation of terraced crop fields
- Pumped storage is about energy, not irrigating terraces.
- (b) Lift irrigation of cereal crops
- It is not a lift-irrigation scheme for crops.
- (d) Rainwater harvesting system
- It is not a rainwater harvesting system.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2024, held on 16 June 2024. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.