Iberdrola Espa\u00f1a is strengthening energy storage on the Tagus River by implementing technological upgrades at the Valdeca\u00f1as pumped-storage power station (C\u00e1ceres). The commissioning of these improvements increases the system\u2019s total capacity by 355 MW of power and adds 210 GWh of storage, thereby enhancing renewable energy integration and the stability of the electricity supply.<\/p>\n
The facility has already successfully completed its first pumping operations. This \u2018gigabattery\u2019, created by linking two of Europe\u2019s largest reservoirs, Alc\u00e1ntara and Valdeca\u00f1as, enables the absorption of surplus energy from intermittent renewable sources (solar and wind), which can then be returned to the system when these sources are unavailable and demand requires it.<\/p>\n
The new configuration at Valdeca\u00f1as also includes a 15 MW\/7.5 MWh hybrid battery, further increasing the Tagus system\u2019s storage capacity by up to 210 GWh \u2013 equivalent to the average annual consumption of 60 000 households. This increase will improve energy demand management, particularly during periods of high demand.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, the co-ordinated operation of the Valdeca\u00f1as, Torrej\u00f3n, Alc\u00e1ntara, and Cedillo reservoirs \u2013 supplemented by control of the Ti\u00e9tar tributary through pumping \u2013 helps to regulate flood peaks, reduce flood risk, preserve ecosystems, and create strategic water reserves throughout the year.<\/p>\n
The Torrej\u00f3n\u2013Valdeca\u00f1as system operates as a giant hydraulic battery, capable of pumping water to higher elevations during periods of surplus renewable energy (for example, at midday when solar generation is high). This energy is used to pump water into an upper reservoir. When demand rises, the water is released to generate electricity. This follows the same principle as a battery \u2013 storing energy for later use \u2013 and enables:<\/p>\n
The use of surplus solar and wind energy to pump water, ensuring that otherwise curtailed renewable generation is stored for when it is most needed.The use of stored energy during peak demand, avoiding the need to activate carbon dioxide-emitting generation.The optimisation of water reserves by transferring water to reservoirs with available capacity from those depleted by rainfall.<\/p>\n
According to the company, the works were carried out exclusively within an electromechanical scope, involving equipment upgrades to provide greater flexibility, without the need for new civil infrastructure or changes to reservoir levels. No new electricity transmission lines were required, as existing infrastructure has been utilised.<\/p>\n
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