Hidroelectrica, together with Transelectrica and Distributie Energie Oltenia (DEO), has conducted tests in pumping mode at the Frunzaru Hydropower Plant (CHE Frunzaru), part of the hydropower development on the Lower Olt River. The initiative aims to assess the technical parameters and commercial aspects associated with operating the facility in pumped-storage mode under normal operating conditions.

The tests were designed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the installations’ performance in this operating mode, as well as to collect and evaluate the data required to determine the potential future use of pumping technology. Alongside the technical assessment, the companies are also examining the commercial implications and the conditions under which this type of operation could be used efficiently.

The analysis also considers the potential application of the results and experience gained to the other hydropower plants within the Lower Olt cascade, namely Ipotesti, Drăgănești, Frunzaru and Rusănești.

Following the technological tests conducted today, it was concluded that the hydro units can operate in pumping mode under normal operating conditions. This result represents an important milestone in the further assessment of the potential of this solution and the ways in which it could be integrated into the operation of existing hydropower infrastructure.

The next stage will focus on assessing the economic conditions for operation in pumping mode, including opportunities for the commercial use of this operating method and the conditions under which it could provide benefits to the energy system.

Through this initiative, Hidroelectrica continues to assess and explore technological solutions that could contribute to increasing the flexibility of the energy system, improving the efficiency of existing infrastructure and strengthening the role of hydropower in ensuring a secure and flexible electricity system.

Hidroelectrica, Romania’s largest renewable energy producer, operates 187 hydropower plants with a total installed capacity of 6.3 GW and owns a 108 MW wind farm portfolio. The company also holds a 13.9% share of Romania’s competitive electricity market.