M. Acharya and T. Atkinson
Idaho National Laboratory, Idaho, United States
Keywords: Pumped Storage Hydropower, Trybrid, Hybridization Assessment, Site Characterization, Technoeconomic Analysis
The deployment of renewable energy technologies faces significant challenges due to absence of viable financial framework, uncertainties in system ownership, and environmental concerns. Key technical barrier is the intermittent nature of variable renewable energy (VRE) sources like wind and solar. Without adequate long-duration storage, these sources cannot reliably meet continuous energy demands. A promising solution is a hydro-hybrid or “Trybrid” system that integrates PSH, large-volume long-duration (LVLD) storage, and VREs. This configuration enhances grid stability, reduces curtailment, and provides rapid response to fluctuations and outages. Currently, no such integrated facility exists, making this a pioneering concept in clean energy infrastructure. This poster presents findings from research on a proposed Trybrid system, including site characterization, hybridization assessment, and technoeconomic analysis. Site characterization evaluates several factors including topographical, environmental, and regulatory constraints. The hybridization assessment explores optimal system mix, sizing, energy management strategies, identifying value propositions such as firm generation, ancillary services, and peak load support. It also examines power purchase agreements (PPAs) tailored to customer flexibility needs. The technoeconomic analysis investigates financial trade-offs between resilience and cost-effectiveness. Overall, this research offers a strategic roadmap for deploying Trybrid systems and serves as a model for utilities and investors pursuing sustainable energy solutions.