Feasibility analysis of a wind pumped hydroelectric storage system on the Island of Brava

This work presents a case study on using wind pump hydroelectric storage system to maximize the penetration of wind energy in an island's power network. The proposed system reduces the dependence on fossil fuel and mitigates the effects of rising fuel prices on electricity. The system could be connected to an existing diesel-based power generating system that supplies electricity to the island. Simulations are performed over several scenarios which are defined by different sized equipment according to island's local infrastructure and energy demand. The results show that proper wind turbine selection has great impact on wind power generation, electricity price and return on investment. It is also noted that exceeding a certain share of wind energy in the power network can entail high energy costs and economically cripple the investment.