The problem with pumped storage is most of the places we can use it are already taken and have been for years.

> pumped storage is still significantly cheaper for seasonal storage

Only because most of the costs have been financially depreciated long ago. Try to build a brand new dam nearly anyplace and the costs will be much higher.

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bryanlarsen a day ago | parent [-]

> we can use it are already taken

There are literally millions of unused locations identified that are suitable for pumped storage: https://re100.eng.anu.edu.au/global/

hydro generation sites are mostly taken. pumped storage doesn't need flow, just 2 reservoirs (one or both of which can be built) and a elevation change.

> a brand new dam

pumped storage facilities generally don't use dams.

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bluGill a day ago | parent [-]

You have to have something to keep the water contained between the two.

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bryanlarsen a day ago | parent [-]

But those aren't dams. Dams are something that stops the flow of water. And it's this stoppage that causes the environmental problems.

Reservoir walls might look like dams, but they're not dams.

	▲	crote 21 hours ago \| parent \| next [-]
		The main enviromental complaint is in flooding huge areas of land, which is the case with both dams and reservoir walls.
	▲	bluGill a day ago \| parent \| prev [-]
		Pedantically you are correct. However you are completely missing the point.