Pumped-Storage Hydropower: The Missing Link in a Renewable Grid

In this episode, energy rounds out the story with pumped-storage hydropower, a proven grid-scale battery that pumps water uphill when power is cheap and releases it during peak demand. The newly licensed 1.2 GW Goldendale project shows how to anchor renewables, reduce reliance on peakers, and stabilize prices. While the world surges ahead, U.S. development has lagged; we outline why that must change and how closed-loop designs, smart siting, and pairing with wind and solar can accelerate clean capacity.