The proposed project

The proposed closed-loop pumped-storage hydropower project will provide a stable source of cost-effective renewable energy, carbon-free peaking capacity, dispatchable load to balance renewable energy sources, and ancillary services for grid operators, while also conserving the water resources of the Kiamichi River. It has a capacity of up to 24 hours of continuous generation at 1,200MW.

The project will be composed of two primary features: the proposed pumped storage site and the associated transmission line. The proposed pumped storage site would be located entirely on private land in southeastern Oklahoma, within Pushmataha County, approximately 5 miles south of the town of Talihina along the Kiamichi River.

The proposed project features:

1. upper reservoir dam and spillways (there is no dam across the Kiamichi River);
2. upper, lower, and regulating reservoirs;
3. upper and lower concrete intake/outlet structures;
4. headrace and tailrace tunnels;
5. an underground pumping station/powerhouse containing four power generating units;
6. two pumping systems with associated piping at regulating reservoir;
7. a 99.96-mile transmission line; and
8. appurtenant facilities.

What is a closed-loop pumped-storage hydropower?

source: https://www.energy.gov/eere/water/pumped-storage-hydropower

How does pumped-storage hydropower work?

How does pumped-storage hydropower work?

Source: https://www.energy.gov/eere/water/pumped-storage-hydropower-animation