Global Growth in Pumped Storage Hydropower Aims to Address Energy Curtailment Issues

Record energy curtailment levels were reported in 2025, with Brazil dumping 20% of solar power and Europe cutting 3.9 TWh of renewables. The International Hydropower Association notes that 90% of long-duration energy storage is from pumped storage hydro (PSH), with 570 GW more in development. Rye Development is advancing closed-loop PSH projects in the U.S. and received a license for the Goldendale Energy Storage Project. The UK plans to build 10 GW of PSH capacity by the mid-2030s, with efforts to streamline permitting for faster project development.

Published Mar 29, 2026

In 2025, energy curtailment reached record levels, with Brazil dumping 20% of its solar power and Germany, France, and the Netherlands cutting 3.9 TWh of renewable energy. The International Hydropower Association (IHA) indicates that pumped storage hydro (PSH) accounts for 90% of long-duration energy storage, with an additional 570 GW under development, primarily in China.

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Rye Development is advancing closed-loop PSH projects in the U.S., including the Goldendale Energy Storage Project, expected to generate 1,200 MW. The UK aims to build 10 GW of PSH capacity by the mid-2030s. Streamlining permitting processes is essential for faster project implementation.