A feasibility study on a photovoltaic-pumped hydroelectric system using agricultural reservoirs of Sado Island

Results of an initial investigation and a system design of a photovoltaic-pumped hydroelectric system using two agricultural reservoirs in Sado Island were reported. According to the geographical survey, it was estimated that the storage of the bottom reservoir was approximately 20,000m³. Half of the water storage of the bottom reservoir can be utilized for pumping up to an upper reservoir during the day by photovoltaic power. The daily power of 540kWh can be generated by 10,000m³ water discharge, which easily cover 42 of Kodomari´s 88 households. A further preliminary survey on a micro photovoltaic-pumped hydroelectric system using privately owned a pair of small reservoirs was conducted, and a daily output of 98kWh was estimated, which will be able to supply power to seven households.