reversible-pump turbine

A reversible-pump turbine is a specialized piece of equipment used in pumped-storage hydroelectric systems. These systems help manage electricity demand by storing energy. During off-peak hours, when electricity is cheaper and demand is low, the turbine acts as a pump, using electricity to move water from a lower reservoir to a higher one. This stored water represents potential energy. When demand is high, the turbine reverses its function, acting as a turbine. Water flows back down to the lower reservoir, passing through the turbine to generate electricity. While this process involves some energy loss, it's often more economical than building extra power generation capacity for peak demand. Most reversible-pump turbines are based on the Francis type design.1