Comparison of Active Power Response Rapidity Between Small-Scale and Large-Scale Pumped Storage Plants under Power Control Mode

Pumped storage plays an important role for regulating emerging power systems. However, large-scale pumped storage plants (LPSPs) encounter several challenges, including site selection constraints, high construction costs, and stringent head height requirements, which hinder their sustainable development. In contrast, small-scale pumped storage plants (SPSPs) offer greater flexibility and potential for integration with distributed renewable energy sources, positioning them as a promising direction for future developments in energy storage. This study aims to compare the active power response rapidity of small-scale and large-scale pumped storage plants. First, numerical models for both small-scale and large-scale pumped storage plants were established using MATLAB/Simulink. Next, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was utilized to weight indicators associated with regulation rapidity, thereby establishing an evaluation framework. Finally, the differences in active power response rapidity were assessed through time-domain simulations and quantitative analyses. The results indicate that, under the operating conditions analyzed in this study, the active power response rapidity of small-scale pumped storage plants exceeds that of large-scale plants, showing a 9.49% improvement under normalized conditions. This performance difference is primarily attributed to the influence of the surge tank on the regulation capabilities of large-scale plants. The findings highlight the advantages of small-scale pumped storage plants in terms of response rapidity, providing significant support for the optimal operation of pumped storage systems.