Over 55 governments and international agencies have endorsed a new framework to accelerate the adoption of pumped storage hydropower, a technology considered essential for secure and flexible clean energy systems.
The Global Alliance for Pumped Storage (GAPS), established at COP29 in Baku, announced that its Governing Principles were formally recognised at the International Forum on Pumped Storage in Paris. The principles highlight pumped storage as critical for energy security, flexibility, affordability, resilience, climate adaptation and economic growth.
Pumped storage, often referred to as “water batteries,” accounts for more than 90% of the world’s electricity storage. It enables excess power from renewable sources such as wind and solar to be stored and released back into the grid when needed, helping stabilise electricity systems.
The GAPS Principles call for governments to set long-duration energy storage targets, strengthen public–private partnerships, and support investment in sustainable projects. They also emphasise the importance of aligning projects with international best practices, encouraging innovation, and developing a skilled workforce.
Key priorities in the principles include:
- Recognising pumped storage as essential for clean and reliable energy.
- Strengthening grid flexibility and resilience.
- Supporting affordable clean energy and job creation.
- Promoting sustainability and international cooperation.
- Advocating for government engagement and leadership.
Malcolm Turnbull, Chair of the Global Alliance for Pumped Storage and former Prime Minister of Australia, said:
“I am delighted to endorse these Principles. They are a clear signal of the Alliance’s commitment to supporting innovative policies and regulations, while also encouraging investment. It is governments who must act to set the pathway for successful adoption of this technology. Only with strong policy and leadership can we unlock pumped storage at the scale needed for a safer, cleaner and more resilient energy future.
“By establishing certainty and direction, governments will ensure communities benefit from reliable electricity, energy security, good jobs and improved climate resilience, while enabling the innovation and sustainability that must sit at the heart of global energy policy.”
Caio Monteiro Leocadio, Deputy Superintendent of Power Generation at Brazil’s Energy Research Office (Empresa de Pesquisa Energética), said the country supports the GAPS Principles and has developed a national roadmap for pumped storage hydropower.
“Brazil published a national Roadmap, prioritising sustainable siting, regulatory adaptation, environmental licensing, market design improves and the development of a pilot project. This effort seeks to unlock the full potential of long-duration storage, enabling pumped storage to play its role to deliver peak capacity, system flexibility and reliability in supporting renewables integration and a reliable, affordable clean energy transition.”
Victor Kitange, Economic Adviser on Energy and Natural Resources at the Commonwealth Secretariat, added:
“The GAPS Principles mark an important step in recognising the indispensable role of pumped storage hydropower in the global clean energy transition. For Commonwealth countries, where energy security, climate resilience and inclusive economic growth are critical priorities, these Principles provide a clear framework for action. The Commonwealth Secretariat strongly supports this collective effort to build resilient energy systems that deliver for both people and planet.”
