A study on transformation of multi-purpose dams into pumped storage hydroelectric power plants by using GIS model

Nowadays, the continuity of all activities related to industrial production is essential for the sustainability of modern life. In order to achieve this, it is necessary to ensure the continuity of energy demand. For an energy supply to be considered as reliable, a fast and reliable response should always be provided to changing demand. Pumped storage systems can meet these needs due to their ability to store energy at times of high demand. Therefore, in recent years, many countries have increased their investments to transform existing hydroelectric power plants into pumping storage hydroelectric power plants (PHS). In this study, a GIS-based model for the transformation of an existing dam into a PHS system has been developed. The aim of this model is to determine the most suitable second reservoir location for the PHS transformation and to calculate the theoretical hydroelectric energy potential. According to the results of the study, the second reservoir location with a volume of 6,5x106 m3 was determined by transforming the Porsuk dam, which was examined as a pilot area, into a PHS. It is calculated that this reservoir can store 0.664 GWh of energy. This study will make an important contribution to the literature by presenting a holistic model approach by determining the most suitable second reservoir location and by calculating the energy potential on the transformation of existing dams into a PHS.