A pumped storage power plant with a lower reservoir and a separate upper reservoir

Abstract

A pumped storage power plant which comprises a lower reservoir (26) and a separate upper reservoir (27) for pumping water, wherein at least one of the separate reservoirs (26, 27) comprises module reservoirs (25a) arranged on a foundation or on a supporting element, wherein the pumped storage power plant further comprises a transfer pipe (39) and a transfer unit (45) arranged for pumping water between the lower reservoir (26) and the upper reservoir (27), wherein, in order to improve the protection of the module reservoir (25a) against external environmental influences, -at least one module reservoir (25a) is arranged or formed on a support (24) or in a space of the support (24), wherein the support (24) is arranged on or in the foundation or is arranged on or in the supporting element, wherein in a stationary embodiment, the foundation is a subsoil (7), and the supporting element is a base (22) arranged on the subsoil (7), and in a floating embodiment, the foundation is water in a base reservoir (3) and the supporting element is a float (23) arranged in the water in the base reservoir (3), -and / or at least one module reservoir (25a) comprises an internal gas space which is sealed against outside air and connected directly or by means of a vent pipe (43) to another sealed gas space, -and / or at least a surface of one module reservoir (25a) is provided with a cover (60) at least on its side and / or at least on its top, wherein a space between the cover (60) and the module reservoir (25a) is filled with gas, liquid or solid.

Description

A pumped storage power plant with a lower reservoir and a separate upper reservoirField of technology

[0001] The invention relates to a pumped storage power plant comprising a lower reservoir and a separate upper reservoir.Prior art

[0002] Conventional pumped storage power plants for pumping water have a lower reservoir and a separate upper reservoir, with at least one of the reservoirs being formed as a continuous reservoir in natural rock, which is currently difficult to achieve, mainly for environmental reasons.

[0003] The separation of the lower and upper reservoirs means that they are not structurally connected to each other in the vertical direction by their walls or connecting elements.

[0004] Instead of a continuous reservoir, a system of smaller module reservoirs with comparable capacity and less impact on the natural environment may be an acceptable solution.

[0005] A solution is known according to document US11846263B2, where a stationary pumped hydroelectric system comprises a storage system comprising an upper storage system and a lower storage system, at least one of the upper storage system and the lower storage system comprising a modular storage arrangement, where one or more modular storage reservoirs comprise an array of module reservoirs, the array of module reservoirs comprising a number of module reservoirs separated and at least partially supported by earthen dams in a generally mutually supporting arrangement.

[0006] The module reservoirs are arranged directly on the subsoil in modular storage reservoirs. There is no supporting element or element that would create space for checking the condition of the bottom of the module reservoir between the module reservoirs and the foundation, i. e. the subsoil.

[0007] All module reservoirs are arranged in a single horizontal plane within the module reservoir field.

[0008] The reservoirs are connected to each other and to the pump / turbine hydraulically via a transfer pipe.

[0009] In this pumped storage power plant design, the separation and height difference between the lower and upper reservoir systems are ensured by natural rock mass, and each reservoir system has a separate foundation.

[0010] The storage reservoirs with clay dams are the supporting elements of the module reservoirs. The module reservoirs are arranged in the storage reservoirs, separately, and must be at least partially supported by clay dams, which are part of the storage reservoirs.

[0011] The lower and upper reservoir systems and the storage or module reservoirs themselves are not structurally connected to each other.

[0012] Although module reservoirs can be made of various materials, such as steel, the choice of clay as the material for the retaining walls in the storage reservoirs is justified by the preferred use of flexible bag module reservoirs, as clay walls can be adapted to the rounded shape and low height of the bags.

[0013] The clay material of the embankments is soft so that there is no risk of damage to the relatively delicate flexible bags.

[0014] The bag reservoirs are closed and completely filled with pumped water, so they have no air space. This prevents the pumped water from evaporating and protects the inner surface of the bag walls from the effects of outside air.

[0015] Disadvantages: the terrain for the storage reservoirs must first be levelled so that their bottoms are excavated at the same height, i.e. in a horizontal plane,Module reservoirs cannot be sunk too deep into the ground and must be arranged side by side in a horizontal plane, as earthen embankments are not very stable and, especially in rainy weather, could collapse under their own weight, and external pressure from the earth could also cause the module reservoirs to collapse, (the depth of storage reservoirs is therefore specified as approximately 2 m only), if steel module reservoirs are used, supporting them with earthen embankments means that the module reservoirs come into contact with the corrosive environment of the earth, which reduces the service life of the module reservoirs,module reservoirs embedded in the ground are not easily accessible from the outside for inspection, maintenance and any repairs or replacement, soil for storing module reservoirs is a foundation with very low load-bearing capacity, so only a low capacity per unit area can be achieved on which the storage reservoir system is built.The storage reservoirs for the module reservoirs (bags) are relatively shallow, but given the large area required for the entire field, they still have a significant impact on the terrain.In order to achieve greater capacity, a pumped storage power plant requires a large area of clay soil, which is not advantageous for the protection of agricultural or forest land, especially in densely populated countries.

[0016] The known solution, a pumped storage power plant according to invention JPH 1068377A, mainly comprises pressure reservoirs that are filled with compressed air from the surrounding atmosphere to increase the capacity of the pumped storage power plant. The pressure reservoirs are gas-tight to prevent compressed air from escaping. The invention does not deal with the protection of the reservoirs against corrosion. The reservoirs can be designed as underground cavities.

[0017] However, the surface of the reservoirs or other parts of the pumped storage power plant is not equipped with any gas-tight shell to ensure long-term protection of the outer surface of the reservoirs against corrosion.

[0018] A known solution according to CN115929532A describes a reservoir-type pumped storage power plant. It comprises a lower group of water reservoirs and an upper group of water reservoirs. The upper group of reservoirs is connected by a high-pressure pipe to a reversible turbine, and the lower group of reservoirs is connected by a low-pressure pipe to this reversible turbine. The reservoirs are built directly on bases created on the subsoil and are arranged horizontally next to each other in a group, with each reservoir connected to the pipe independently.

[0019] The horizontal design of the reservoirs shown here is considered the most advantageous, i.e. they are relatively wide and the horizontal arrangement of the reservoirs next to each other is advantageous for the even flow of water in the transfer pipeline during the transfer cycle. However, the wide design of the reservoirs requires more massive bases, as they are very sensitive to uneven load-bearing capacity and thus compressibility of the foundation in terms of structural stability, i.e. the subgrade, and, especially in groups, require a large flat plot of land or extensive terrain modifications.

[0020] Since the reservoirs are arranged with their bottom directly on the base, i.e. on the supporting element, the bottom is not accessible for inspection from below.

[0021] The water reservoirs are exposed to weather conditions from above and from the sides and to corrosion and erosion from the bases below. During pumping, the air inside the water reservoirs above the water level is constantly rearranged from outside, causing corrosion of the inner walls of the water reservoirs.

[0022] A solution is known according to document DE102019118725A1, where a stationary pumping station is created in a depression after surface mining.

[0023] The lower reservoirs are pressure vessels arranged at the bottom of the lake.

[0024] The pressure vessels are stored horizontally next to each other or regularly above each other and are secured against buoyancy in the event of flooding by anchoring to the bottom of the lake or to a concrete base, or they are filled with rock or made of thick-walled concrete so that they are secured by their own weight at the bottom of the lake.

[0025] Module reservoirs are arranged directly on a horizontal subsoil or on a horizontal concrete base. There are no elements between the module reservoirs and the subsoil or base that would create space for checking the condition of the underside of the module reservoir. Supports under the module reservoirs would be undesirable here, as they would significantly reduce the head.

[0026] Water from the lake is passed through a turbine into pressure vessels, which generates electrical energy. Electrical energy is accumulated by pumping water from the pressure vessels back into the lake.

[0027] The lower reservoirs (pressure vessels) are not structurally connected to each other by their walls or by connecting elements; they are only connected hydraulically by a transfer pipe with a pump / turbine.

[0028] The pumped storage power plant can be arranged in two variants:

[0029] First variant:

[0030] The lower reservoirs are pressure vessels arranged at the bottom of one part of the lake that is not filled with water.

[0031] The adjacent part of the lake is separated by a dam and once fdled with water, becomes the upper reservoir.

[0032] This is a temporary option until the entire lake is fdled with water.

[0033] The pressure vessels that form the lower reservoir are connected to the upper reservoir via a transfer pipe-

[0034] Second option:

[0035] The lower reservoir consists of pressure vessels arranged at the bottom of the lake.

[0036] After the dam is removed and the reservoir is fdled with water, the entire lake becomes the upper reservoir.

[0037] The pressure vessels that form the lower reservoir are connected to the upper reservoir via a transfer pipe and are also connected by the water in the upper reservoir and its force - the upper reservoir acts at the usable depth with the force of the water's buoyancy on the lower reservoir (pressure vessels). This is a variant outside the scope of the given technical field.

[0038] Disadvantages:Pressure vessels are subjected to external overpressure from the lake when flooded with water, so they are reinforced with internal stiffeners or made of thick-walled concrete.In closed pressure vessels, air dissolves in the water under high pressure and, during pumping, escapes with the pumped water into the lake, where it separates from the water. The amount of air in the pressure vessels and thus the capacity of the pumped storage power plant gradually decreases, so it is obviously necessary to replenish the air in the pressure vessels, otherwise, water can only be pumped out of the pressure vessels at the cost of creating a vacuum, theoretically to the level of saturated water vapour pressure, but this means breaking the water column and causing severe cavitation, which prevents the pump from operating the discharge head cannot be greater than the depth of the lake,Pressure vessels that are stacked on top of each other or covered with soil are very difficult, if not impossible, to access from below or from any side to check their safety or repair them. Therefore, if a pressure vessel fails, it is simply taken out of service. given that the pressure vessels are arranged directly on a level foundation (subsoil) or on a concrete support element, the pressure vessels and water transfer channels are always arranged in a simple horizontal configuration and the terrain must first be levelled to a horizontal plane; A stepped arrangement would, on the contrary, be a significant construction and operational complication.Pressure vessels and other necessary concrete structures have a relatively high weight in relation to the amount of water being pumped. there is a shortage of suitable stone and sand for the mass production of concrete pressure vessels, the inner and outer surfaces of the pressure vessels are constantly exposed to water or air from the external environment, which reduces the service life of the pressure vessels.

[0039] Czech utility model CZ 37585 U1 describes a pumped storage power plant comprising a lower reservoir and an upper reservoir, which are arranged vertically above each other. In this pumped storage power plant, an artificial intermediate structure is used exclusively to create the height difference between the lower and upper reservoirs when the upper reservoir is arranged vertically above the lower reservoir. The intermediate structure is used here to achieve the height difference between the lower reservoir and the upper reservoir, or to connect these reservoirs. The vertical load from the parts arranged above is transferred to the parts arranged below, and the intermediate structure can serve as a connecting part between the lower and upper reservoirs. The pumped storage power plant module is supported on a base created in the subsoil and comprises a lower reservoir, an intermediate reservoir and an upper reservoir, with the lower reservoir arranged in the lower part of the module, either freely positioned in the space of the intermediate reservoir or with its walls formed as part of the intermediate reservoir. The gas spaces in the lower and upper reservoirs are interconnected by a vent pipe.

[0040] A similar pumped storage power plant is also known from Czech utility model CZ 36529 U 1.

[0041] Reservoir protection by surface coating is known.

[0042] Existing solutions for pumped storage power plants with module reservoirs still have significant environmental and economic disadvantages that prevent their widespread introduction, in particular: the significant extent of terrain modification required to level the foundation for the installation of the module arrays they interfere with the environment (in real natural conditions, it is very rare to find twohorizontal areas with constant subsoil load-bearing capacity and a large height difference) they do not allow the use of areas with uneven subsoil, which are much more common in nature, can essentially only be used on subsoil with uniform load-bearing capacity, cannot be used in locations with significant variation in subsoil load-bearing capacity in the area designated for the construction of module reservoirs for pumped storage power plants, and / or they have a relatively high weight in relation to the amount of water pumped, their reservoirs and transfer pipes are not sufficiently protected against external influences, in particular weather conditions, they do not utilise the waste heat generated during pumping.

[0043] The aim of the invention is to design a pumped storage power plant with a lower reservoir and a separate upper reservoir that utilises the advantages and eliminates the disadvantages of existing solutions by providing the reservoirs with a modular design that: provides the best possible protection and insulation of the module reservoirs against adverse corrosive and erosive effects of the environment, especially against weather conditions, allows the accumulation of waste heat generated during pumping, is relatively light, structurally strong and therefore inexpensive and suitable for series or mass production with simple assembly, long service life and easy operational maintenance, for the placement of the lower and upper reservoirs, it will allow the use of not only solid but also liquid foundation and combinations thereof, it can be built in mountainous and lowland terrain with height irregularities without the need for major terrain modifications, with minimal construction costs for foundation modification, can use hard, solid rock foundation that are of little interest to foresters and farmers, will make optimal use of the area and uneven load-bearing capacity of the subsoil or the area and uneven depth of water bodies, will therefore have only a minimal impact on the natural environment.Summary of the invention

[0044] The invention solves the above task with a pumped storage power plant which comprises a lower reservoir and a separate upper reservoir for pumping water, wherein at least one of the separate reservoirs comprises at least one module reservoir arranged on a foundation or on a supporting element, wherein the pumped storage power plant further comprises a transfer pipe and a transfer unit arranged for pumping water between the lower reservoir and the upper reservoir, the underlying idea of which is that, in order to improve the protection of the module reservoir against external influences, at least one module reservoir is arranged or formed on a support or in a space of the support, wherein the support is arranged on or in the foundation or on or in the supporting element, wherein in a stationary embodiment, the foundation is a subsoil, and the supporting element is a base arranged on the subsoil, and in a floating embodiment, the foundation is water in a base reservoir and the supporting element is a float arranged in the water in the base reservoir, and / or at least one module reservoir comprises an internal gas space which is sealed against outside air and connected directly or by means of a vent pipe to another sealed gas space, and / or at least a surface of one module reservoir is provided with a cover at least on its side and / or at least on its top, wherein a space between the cover and the module reservoir is fdled with gas, liquid or solid.

[0045] The three features of the alternatives of the invention are united by a common effect, i.e. improved protection of the module reservoir against external influences.

[0046] The three features of the alternatives of the invention achieve this effect individually or in any combination of two or all three.

[0047] Each of these alternative features provides only partial protection of the module reservoir against external influences.

[0048] In simple terms, the support protects the bottom (floor) of the module reservoir from the outside, the gas space enclosure protects the surface of the walls and the bottom of the module reservoir inside, and the cover protects the walls, the top (ceiling) and part of the bottom (floor) of the module reservoir fromthe outside. Together, these alternative features provide the best protection for the module reservoir.

[0049] The outer surface and / or inner surface of the parts of the pumped storage power plant is advantageously provided with an anti -corrosion coating.

[0050] The second important common effect of all alternative features is that they reduce heat loss from the pumped water to the environment. This allows the water temperature to be increased for heating purposes or at least reduces the risk of the pumped water freezing in winter.

[0051] In addition to these common effects, the alternative features listed may have other effects depending on the specific design, both when used alone and in combination with other alternative features.

[0052] The support as the first alternative feature of the invention: enables the module reservoir to be separated from the foundation or supporting element, insulating it against any harmful mechanical, thermal and chemical effects from the foundation or supporting element, and further improves the ability to accumulate waste heat generated during pumping in the module reservoir.

[0053] By definition, the support also serves to support and adjust the height of the module reservoir, in particular to raise the position of the module reservoir, which results in other particularly advantageous designs and effects.

[0054] Further advantageous designs of the pumped storage power plant and effects can be achieved in combination with other alternative features of the invention.

[0055] In combination with another alternative feature of the invention, the support can be arranged on the module reservoir in a different way than described in the definition of the invention.

[0056] When using another alternative feature of the invention in a pumped storage power plant, no module reservoir needs to be arranged on the support.

[0057] When the support is hollow or consists of a column or lattice structure, it creates space under the module reservoirs for the placement of pipes, at the same time creating space for operating and maintenance personnel, space for rectification of the module reservoir, the support can be advantageously arranged outside the footprint of the module reservoir, e.g. by being attached to the side of the vertical walls of the module reservoir.

[0058] Furthermore, in the interest of maximum efficiency of the pumped storage power plant, the supports: enable the required discharge head to be achieved, e.g. in the upper reservoir, it may be useful and economically advantageous for the supports of the module reservoirs to be of a large height, which ensures the required height difference between the lower reservoir and the module reservoirs of the upper reservoir and thus the required capacity of the pumped storage power plant, it allows the shape, size and position of each module reservoir to be optimised and adapted to a wide range of environmental conditions, so that the module reservoirs are not only relatively light, structurally strong and therefore inexpensive and suitable for series or mass production with simple assembly, long service life, high safety and easy operational sustainability. allow the use of hard, solid rock foundations as well as liquid foundations or combinations thereof, They allow the dimensions and height arrangement of module reservoirs to be optimised according to the shape and / or load-bearing capacity of the foundation. enables the placement of module reservoirs with the required discharge height in mountainous and lowland terrain with varying, even irregular, slopes and with minimal construction costs for modifying the foundation for the placement of module reservoirs, allow module reservoirs to be built in various numbers and arrangements according to the needs and possibilities of the given location, where they will make the best use of the area and load-bearing capacity of the foundation within the plot designated for construction, they will not interfere with the natural environment, module reservoirs will not require the demolition of existing residential or recreational buildings to achieve the required capacity, their safe construction will allow module reservoirs to be built even in their vicinity.

[0059] Module reservoirs generally have different dimensions, e.g. different diameters and / or different heights.

[0060] Module reservoirs preferably have uniform dimensions, e.g. uniform diameter and / or uniform height.

[0061] The lower and / or upper reservoir can advantageously be designed as an array of module reservoirs.

[0062] The possibility of placing module reservoirs on supports or in the space under the supports according to the invention is a design feature which allows systems of module reservoirs in pumped storage power plants with a lower reservoir and a separate upper reservoir to be, especially by means of advantageous designs, in the interest of maximum efficiency, in particular in the interest of achieving the required discharge head together with optimisation of the shape, size and position of the module reservoirs, with individual arrangement of each module reservoir with or without a support, be very well adapted to the most diverse environmental conditions, so that they are not only relatively light, structurally strong and therefore inexpensive and suitable for series or mass production with simple assembly, long service life, high safety and easy operational maintenance, but also enable the protection and insulation of module reservoirs against the adverse effects of the foundation and the environment in general, enable the accumulation of waste heat generated during pumping, they will enable the use of hard, solid rock foundations, as well as liquid foundations or their r combinations, they can be built with the required discharge height in mountainous and lowland terrain with varying, even irregular, slopes and with minimal construction costs for modifying the foundation for the installation of module reservoirs, they can be constructed with a different number and arrangement of module reservoirs according to the needs and possibilities of the given location, while making the best possible use of the area and loadbearing capacity of the foundation within the land designated for construction, They will not have a negative impact on the natural environment. they do not require the demolition of existing residential or recreational buildings and can even be built in their vicinity.

[0063] A large number of smaller diameter module reservoirs in a module reservoir system are much less sensitive to uneven load-bearing capacity and thus to the compressibility of the subsoil or the depth of the base reservoir, and, by respecting the irregular height of the terrain, require much less terrain modification than a small number of wide module reservoirs with a horizontal arrangement on the same area system.

[0064] Advantageously, the lower and / or upper reservoir comprises a module array that comprises only modules, primarily standard modules and / or a group of standard modules, wherein a standard module comprises at least one module reservoir and also comprises a support arranged under the module reservoir.

[0065] In addition to standard modules, the module array may generally also comprise energy modules or other specialised types of modules.

[0066] On flat ground, it will probably be most advantageous to build a single-level module array with uniform heights of the bases, supports and module reservoirs. On uneven terrain with uneven load-bearing capacity, it will probably be more economically acceptable to adapt the module array to these conditions and build it on multiple levels with different heights and designs of bases and module reservoirs, with different heights of supports and, if necessary, without supports.

[0067] The support can be shared by several modules.

[0068] Standard modules are structural elements of the module array.

[0069] Standard modules have uniform dimensions, e.g. uniform diameter and / or uniform height, and preferably also have a uniform type, shape or arrangement of their parts, in particular module reservoirs and their supports, and preferably have the same axis of symmetry.

[0070] Module reservoirs and standard modules are preferably arranged side by side and / or one above the other in the systems, preferably at uniform distances from each other, ensuring access for maintenance of the module reservoirs and other parts.

[0071] The module array can comprise separate standard modules if they are sufficiently stable and cannot damage each other.

[0072] Standard modules and separate module reservoirs should preferably have a self-supporting structure.

[0073] The self-supporting structure of standard modules or module reservoirs ensures their dimensionalstability when arranged on a foundation or supporting element during operational loads, especially during water pumping under the weight of module reservoirs filled with water, and also provides stability against overturning in adverse weather conditions, without the need for supports or anchors anchored to the surrounding environment.

[0074] In the case of tall and slender standard modules with a module reservoir on a high support arranged separately, sufficient stability cannot be ensured due to significant buckling stress or strong winds.

[0075] Module reservoirs or standard modules can be connected to each other in groups, e.g. to increase their stability.

[0076] Standard modules can be arranged in groups of standard modules within a module array.

[0077] In particular, by structurally connecting standard modules, it is possible to create a self-supporting structure of a group of standard modules, which, due to its rigidity, ensures the necessary stability of the standard modules for the given load.

[0078] A group of modules consists of standard modules that have at least one common feature in their arrangement, e.g. a spatial or functional feature:

[0079] Spatial features include, for example: spatial arrangement next to and / or above each other, mutual distance, specific shape or size of individual parts, e.g. height, diameter or shape of module reservoirs, or height of supports, the method of structural connection between modules by their walls and / or by means of reinforcements or tie rods.

[0080] Functional features include, for example, features of a common hydraulic connection: transfer pump, collecting transfer pipe, circulation pump, collecting circulation pipe.

[0081] In a group of standard modules, some (at least two) standard modules may be connected to each other by their walls or by means of reinforcements or tie rods or a combination of these methods, i.e. structurally.

[0082] The structural connection of modules to each other and the connection of individual parts of a module here means a fixed connection in at least one direction, i.e. in terms of tension or pressure, with defined elasticity and clearance.

[0083] A stiffener can therefore be subjected to tension, compression or shear.

[0084] A tie rod can be subjected to tension or compression.

[0085] Groups of standard modules may be separated from each other.

[0086] Groups of standard modules may be structurally connected to each other, preferably in the centre of gravity of each group of standard modules, preferably by their walls or by means of stiffeners or tie rods or a combination of these methods.

[0087] A group of standard modules in which the standard modules are structurally connected to each other, preferably by means of vertical and / or horizontal stiffeners, is preferably structurally connected to some of the other standard modules, preferably by their walls or by means of stiffeners or tie rods or a combination of these methods.

[0088] Standard modules require a foundation with sufficient load-bearing capacity and the necessary surface area for their installation. The foundation may have varying degrees of flexibility and strength, ranging from solid rock to liquid.

[0089] The load-bearing capacity of the foundation can be used to determine the weight of the standard modules of a pumped storage power plant.

[0090] The more load-bearing the subsoil, the greater the height of the stationary module can be; the greater the depth of water in the base reservoir, the greater the height of the floating standard module can be.

[0091] The foundation must be sufficiently load-bearing to support a powerful power plant.

[0092] Solid ground can be reinforced, but this increases construction costs.

[0093] The standard module is preferably arranged on a support element.

[0094] The supporting element is arranged on or in the foundation and serves to support the standardmodule.

[0095] The supporting element can advantageously be part of the module.

[0096] For a stationary standard module, the supporting element can be a base arranged on the subsoil.

[0097] A stationary standard module can be built on a separate base.

[0098] A stationary standard module is preferably arranged freely or anchored directly to the subsoil if the subsoil is sufficiently solid, e.g. rocky subsoil.

[0099] A stationary standard module is advantageously arranged on a base, preferably made of concrete or reinforced concrete, which is formed in the subsoil. The base increases the stability of the stationary standard module on the subsoil, which is not always sufficiently solid to directly support the anchoring elements of the standard module and improves the uniformity of stress on its structure.

[0100] For a floating standard module, the supporting element can be a float buoyed by the buoyancy of water at the usable depth of the base reservoir.

[0101] Advantages of the floating embodiment: each floating standard module comprises a float, each floating group of standard modules comprises a common float, the entire floating module array comprises a common float.

[0102] The float, by being submerged in the water in the base reservoir and under the action of external hydrostatic water pressure, creates the buoyancy necessary for the floating standard module to float in the water in the base reservoir.

[0103] The float is advantageously arranged in the lower part of the floating standard module.

[0104] The float preferably has a height that exceeds the water level in the base reservoir to ensure safe floating of the full and empty floating standard module at its maximum permissible inclination.

[0105] The float and the reservoir are pressure vessels that are loaded by internal and / or external fluid overpressure. They are advantageously provided with a lower and / or upper arched or rounded bottom that best resists this load. They are advantageously made of corrosion-resistant material, preferably stainless steel.

[0106] Two separate reservoirs arranged at different heights can be called a lower reservoir and an upper reservoir.

[0107] The height difference between the lower and upper reservoirs, which are separated from each other, can be achieved by using a natural rock mass or by means of an artificial structure.

[0108] Arranging module reservoirs or standard modules into groups and systems also allows you to: combine different types of module reservoirs with different types of foundations and supporting elements, protect module reservoirs from mutual damage when loaded with pumped water, create space to protect module reservoirs against adverse environmental effects, make full use of terrain with uneven height and load-bearing capacity of the subsoil or uneven depth of the base reservoir, reduces the space requirements and significantly increases the variety and thus the number of locations suitable for the installation of a pumped storage power plant.

[0109] In particular, the arrangement of the lower and / or upper reservoir into a module array with standard modules according to the invention makes it possible to create a very diverse range of advantageous stationary and floating embodiments for the optimal use of pumped storage power plants in a wide variety of geographical and economic conditions.

[0110] An artificial reservoir or a natural reservoir created or formed in the subsoil, which may be above ground or underground (cave), may be used as the lower reservoir or upper reservoir.[oni] The artificial reservoir can advantageously be formed by an existing above-ground, surface artificial water structure, i.e. by damming a mountain valley with an earth, concrete or steel dam, by excavating a pit or flooding a mined-out surface mine, or by locating it in the premises of an operating or abandoned deep mine.

[0112] An artificial reservoir, preferably made of steel or concrete, may be constructed as a stationary reservoir arranged on solid subsoil on dry land or on the seabed, where it may extend above the sea level or be completely submerged, or it may be constructed as a floating reservoir arranged in the water in the main reservoir.

[0113] A natural reservoir may advantageously be formed by a lake, sea or river.

[0114] An artificial or natural reservoir may also be used as a base reservoir, e.g. for the placement of a floating module array.

[0115] The base reservoir for placing the floating module array should preferably be drainless to reduce the risk of damage to the floating module array when it lands on the bottom of the base reservoir due to accidental or intentional discharge of water from the base reservoir or due to damage, leakage or permeability of its dam or bottom, the floating module array would be damaged when it settles on the bottom of the base reservoir.

[0116] The lower reservoir and upper reservoir in the pumped storage power plant according to the invention are separated from each other, which means that the lower and upper reservoirs are not structurally connected to each other in the vertical direction by their walls or connecting elements, i.e. they do not exert any force on each other in the vertical direction, i.e. they do not affect each other in the vertical direction in terms of strength, i.e. they do not directly or indirectly influence each other's height, i.e. the head. However, they may be connected horizontally so that they can improve stability against overturning, or they may be connected hydraulically by means of pipes for pumping water or gas.

[0117] This effect can be advantageously achieved by ensuring that the lower and upper reservoirs: each have their own independent foundation, each have an independent supporting element, e.g. an independent base created on a common subsoil, or an independent float arranged in a common base reservoir, or are both arranged on a common base, i.e. a supporting element, independently, separately, preferably next to each other, i.e. independently of each other at least in the vertical direction. or each has its own independent support arranged on a common base, i.e. on a common supporting element.

[0118] The rock mass as a foundation for the lower and upper reservoirs may be natural or artificial, e.g. created on land reclaimed after rock mining.

[0119] Similarly, a natural or artificial cave used as a reservoir, e.g. as a lower reservoir, in a mountain rock massif may be structurally independent of the upper reservoir, because the rock with the upper reservoir arranged above the cave forms a natural supporting structure that spans the cave and does not load its subsoil.

[0120] The height difference between the lower and upper reservoirs can also be achieved by suitably separating the lower and upper reservoirs in the subsoil of this rock mass.

[0121] The same principles of arrangement apply in the case where the lower and / or upper reservoir is designed as a module array according to the invention.

[0122] Each of these systems of modules according to the invention: has its own independent foundation, are advantageously separated by the subsoil of the natural rock mass, which serves to support the module arrays and can also advantageously ensure the height difference between these module arrays, or has its own independent supporting element on a common foundation, preferably independent bases, i.e. next to each other, on the same subsoil, or independent floats, i.e. next to each other, in the same base reservoir, or they are arranged independently, side by side on a common supporting element, preferably on a common base, or side by side on a common float as a supporting element, preferably with a symmetrical arrangement of the modules of the lower and upper module arrays to maintain equilibrium at the water level in the base reservoir.

[0123] The most economically advantageous situation is when a natural elevation is available for the pumped storage power plant according to the invention, in which case the upper reservoir can be advantageously built on its top, on a slope or in a higher valley, and the lower reservoir will be built at the foot of the natural elevation.

[0124] In a pumped storage power plant arranged on flat terrain, the upper reservoir can advantageously be formed by a module array with high supports, which ensure its height difference from the lower reservoir arranged next to it and advantageously also formed as a module array.

[0125] If the pumped storage power plant is built in a mountainous environment, the lower set of modules will be built under the mountains on subsoil, which is likely to be less load bearing than the mountain peaks, so the module reservoirs will probably be lower and therefore require a larger area than the upper set of modules.

[0126] At least one module reservoir is arranged in the lower part of the standard module so that its bottom rests on the support.

[0127] Other module reservoirs can be arranged directly on the supporting element (on the base or on a float) or can be arranged directly on or in the foundation (on the subsoil or in the water in the base reservoir).

[0128] The support may advantageously be at least partially formed as a superstructure of a concrete base made of insulating material having the necessary compressive strength to support the module reservoir, advantageously filling the entire cross-section of the module below the module reservoir.

[0129] The insulating material is preferably impermeable to electricity and / or water and / or heat.

[0130] The water pressure in the module reservoir is thus transmitted evenly through the bottom to the entire surface of the support or foundation. The bottom of the module reservoir can therefore be very thin. The bottom of the module reservoir can advantageously be flat.

[0131] The bottom of the module reservoir can be inspected using non-destructive methods, e.g. ultrasound, from the top, i.e. from the inside of the reservoir.

[0132] A standard module with an empty module reservoir can also be lifted, e.g. by a crane or using hydraulic or pneumatic lifting equipment. The bottom of the module reservoir can then be inspected from below.

[0133] The vertical walls of the module reservoir exert a higher specific pressure on the foundation than the bottom of the module reservoir. It is therefore advantageous to widen the lower part of the vertical walls of the module reservoir, thereby reducing the specific pressure exerted by the vertical walls on the foundation.

[0134] The transfer pipe is advantageously connected to the side of the vertical wall of the module reservoir.

[0135] Due to variable filling with pumped water and temperature changes, module reservoirs change their dimensions, especially their diameter, due to the elasticity of the material. It is advantageous to allow free expansion of the module reservoir so that internal stress does not increase in the walls and supports of the module reservoirs or supports.

[0136] To prevent the module reservoir from shifting or rotating on the foundation or support, it is advantageous to secure the module reservoir to the foundation or support with a stabilising element, e.g. a stop.

[0137] It is advantageous for the stop, preferably in the form of a centring pin, to be arranged in the centre of the bottom of the module reservoir. Dimensional changes of the module reservoir thus occur symmetrically from the centre of the bottom of the module reservoir across the entire contact surface of the module reservoir with the foundation or support. To prevent the module reservoir from rotating on the contact surface, it is advantageous to secure the module reservoir with an additional stop against the foundation or support.

[0138] A module reservoir with a flat bottom can advantageously have a relatively thin bottom. The walls of the module reservoir thus load the bottom of the module reservoir with their own weight, which can cause flexible or permanent deformation of the bottom and increased specific pressure at this point on the foundation or support. To reduce this specific pressure, it is advantageous to increase the area that the wall of the module reservoir presses against the bottom of the module reservoir, preferably at least in the ratio of the density of steel to the density of water. The increase in area is advantageously achieved by a support ring made of steel, to which the wall of the module reservoir is attached.

[0139] Due to dimensional changes, friction will occur between the flat bottom of the module reservoir and the foundation or support. In order to reduce wear on the bottom of the module reservoir and at the same time on the foundation or support in the contact area, it is advantageous to place the module reservoir on a sliding pad, which is preferably made of steel, preferably of the same composition as the bottom of the module reservoir, or it may be made of a sliding metal alloy or a non-metallic sliding material, or the sliding pad may be made of steel covered with a sliding metal alloy or a non-metallic sliding material.

[0140] If the module reservoir is firmly connected, welded to the support, the support can be mounted on the base in a similar way by inserting a sliding pad between the support and the base.

[0141] Instead of a sliding bearing, a rolling bearing can be used for the module reservoir or support, which is preferably designed as a system of flat ball or roller bearings comprising a lower and upper bearing plate with balls or rollers secured in a ball cage between them. The bearings can be oriented radially from the centre of the module reservoir or support, allowing expansion symmetrical to the centre of the entire expansion area.

[0142] The standard module is advantageously secured to the base with screws to prevent it from tipping over or shifting in strong winds.

[0143] However, in accordance with the essence of the invention, tall and slender standard modules can be secured against tipping in strong winds by connecting them in groups.

[0144] The lower module array advantageously comprises standard modules comprising lower module reservoirs, while the upper module array comprises standard modules comprising upper module reservoirs.

[0145] For the invention in question, the standard module may be stationary or floating, and the following also applies:

[0146] in terms of location: a stationary standard module is arranged on a solid rock subsoil, which is also the bottom of the base reservoir, a floating standard module is arranged on the surface of a liquid, preferably water, in the base reservoir;

[0147] in terms of change in height during pumping: a stationary conventional module does not change its height during pumping, the floating standard module changes its height during pumping.

[0148] A stationary group of standard modules comprises stationary standard modules.

[0149] A stationary group of standard modules is preferably formed by stationary standard modules connected to each other.

[0150] A floating group of standard modules comprises floating standard modules.

[0151] A floating group of standard modules is preferably made up of floating standard modules connected to each other.

[0152] A stationary module array comprises stationary standard modules and / or stationary groups of standard modules.

[0153] a floating module array comprises floating standard modules and / or floating groups of standard modules.

[0154] The pumped storage power plant according to the invention can thus be formed in particular by the following main combinations of a lower reservoir and a separate upper reservoir: a lower stationary module array and an upper stationary module array, a lower floating module array and an upper floating module array, a lower stationary module array and an upper floating module array, a lower floating module array and an upper stationary module array, lower artificial and / or natural reservoir and upper stationary module array, lower stationary module array and upper artificial and / or natural reservoir, lower artificial and / or natural reservoir and upper floating module array, lower floating module array and upper artificial and / or natural reservoir.

[0155] The nature of the invention gives rise to possible combinations of parallel arrangements of a lower reservoir and a separate upper reservoir in a pumped storage power plant: the lower reservoir may be shared by at least two upper reservoirs, the upper reservoir may be shared by at least two lower reservoirs.

[0156] In addition, combinations of the arrangement of the lower reservoir and the separate upper reservoir in a pumped storage power plant are possible, where a stationary and / or floating module array, which form the upper reservoir, is arranged in the space of the basic reservoir (e.g. in the sea), and at the same time a stationary and / or floating module array forming the lower reservoir is arranged in this base reservoir (suitable for situations where no free land is available on land).

[0157] Here, too, the lower module array and the upper module array are structurally separated from each other and do not exert any vertical force on each other, each of these sets of modules has its own independent foundation, they are arranged next to each other, i.e. they either stand separately on the natural rock mass that forms the bottom of the base reservoir, or they are separately affected by the buoyancy of the water in the base reservoir.

[0158] The mutual connection of standard modules, especially those with relatively small diameters, or groups of standard modules in a module array by means of walls and / or reinforcements or tie rods according to the invention, also known as structural connections, has a significantly new effect in that it mainly creates economically efficient cohesive bodies: it increases the external stability of the module array on the foundation against external forces, i.e.against the overturning of the module array or groups of conventional modules, especially when loaded not only by their own weight and the weight of water, but also by strong winds in the case of conventional modules in general, furthermore, when loaded by waves or water currents in conventional modules arranged in an aquatic environment or when loaded by uneven subsidence in conventional modules arranged on rock subsoils, increases the internal structural and shape stability of the module array, especially for parts of standard modules subjected to buckling, bending or external overpressure, i.e. helps to keep the mechanical and thermal stress and deformation of standard modules within the module array within acceptable limits, enables the creation of a lightweight yet comprehensively very stable module array structure, which is particularly advantageous for tall and slender modules.

[0159] A disadvantage of the structural connection of standard modules is the need to address their expansion due to different fdling of the module reservoirs with water and due to thermal stress during the accumulation of waste heat.

[0160] This shortcoming is solved by reinforcements or tie rods (hereinafter also referred to as reinforcements), which also allow expansion, preferably within an adjustable range. During normal operation, these reinforcements do not transfer loads and allow free expansion of the connected parts. If the set range is exceeded, e.g. due to increased side wind speed, when greater expansion could jeopardise the stability of the connected parts, the reinforcements ensure a firm connection and further expansion is only possible within the limits of elastic deformation of the connected and connecting parts.

[0161] The transfer of fluids and the movement of the floating standard module in the base reservoir take place in an environment of two fluids with different densities.

[0162] Due to gravity, the less dense and therefore lighter fluid remains above the surface of the denser and therefore heavier fluid.

[0163] The average density of a floating standard module is lower than the density of the denser fluid in the base reservoir and higher than the density of the less dense fluid, which is why the floating standard module floats on the surface of the denser fluid in the base reservoir.

[0164] Fluids with different densities are preferably a liquid with a higher density (hereinafter referred to as liquid) and a gas with a lower density (hereinafter referred to as gas). The liquid is preferably water, and the gas is preferably air.

[0165] Fresh water from a river or lake is preferably used for pumping, as this provides better protection against corrosion for the interior of the module reservoirs, pipes and energy units.

[0166] The reservoirs comprise space for a denser fluid, e.g. a liquid reservoir, liquid space, and / or comprise space for a less dense fluid, a gas reservoir, gas space.

[0167] If the liquid is water, the terms water space and water reservoir are used.

[0168] The reservoir advantageously has a bottom and / or top.

[0169] In an open reservoir, the gas space above the liquid level in the reservoirs is connected to the surrounding atmosphere and the gas pressure in the base reservoir must be equal to the pressure of the surrounding atmosphere. Air is available as a gas here.

[0170] A closed module reservoir may comprise only a liquid space and / or a gas space which is separated from the surrounding atmosphere above the liquid level in the module reservoir.

[0171] The gas pressure in the module reservoir does not have to be equal to the ambient atmospheric pressure. An inert gas, preferably nitrogen, can be used here, which is more expensive but reduces corrosion of the pumped storage power plant components.

[0172] Potential energy of gas can be accumulated in a closed module reservoir. It is filled with compressed gas, and the module reservoir is then called a pressure gas reservoir or a pressure air reservoir if the compressed gas is air.

[0173] To enable the simultaneous accumulation of potential energy from water and gas, the module reservoir can be filled with both water and gas, preferably compressed gas. The water reservoir then acts as both a compressed air reservoir and a compressed gas reservoir.

[0174] During pumping, the water and air contents of open module reservoirs are periodically changed.

[0175] In open module reservoirs, the air is regularly exchanged with the atmosphere during pumping - this is an open air circulation. The inner surface of the walls of the module reservoirs is thus regularly exposed to atmospheric air and corrodes without proper protection.

[0176] In a pumped storage power plant with open water circulation, normal or partially treated water canbe used, preferably treated by filtration to prevent any risk to the environment in the event of accidental leakage from the reservoirs. Seawater is also used in coastal pumped storage power plants.

[0177] Any type of water can be used in a pumped storage power plant with a closed water circuit. The water can be thickened with soluble or insoluble substances to achieve higher power transfer rates and can be treated to reduce erosion or corrosion of the pumped storage power plant components or to reduce the formation of mineral deposits.

[0178] When a floating module array is arranged in the sea, fresh water can be used for pumping, thus increasing the service life of the pumped storage power plant.

[0179] If the pumped storage power plant according to the invention comprises an artificial and / or natural reservoir or a floating module array arranged in an artificial and / or natural reservoir, a separate water filling is used for pumping, and biological life in the artificial and / or natural reservoir is not destroyed.

[0180] The pumped storage power plant, especially with stationary conventional modules, is advantageously equipped with a catchment reservoir of the necessary volume for any leakage of treated water from some of the module reservoirs.

[0181] When water is pumped from the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir, the water level in the lower reservoir drops and the water level in the upper reservoir rises.

[0182] When water is discharged from the upper reservoir to the lower reservoir, the water level in the upper reservoir decreases and the water level in the lower reservoir rises.

[0183] The values of water level fluctuations depend on the ratio of water volumes in the reservoirs. If the sea is used as a reservoir, the water level fluctuations in this reservoir, i.e. in the sea, are also negligible.

[0184] If the pumped storage power plant is designed so that the upper or lower floating or submersible module array is arranged separately in the base reservoir, the water level in the base reservoir changes in height during pumping: when the floating or submerged module array is fdled, the water level in the base reservoir rises, when the floating or submerged module array is emptied, the water level in the base reservoir decreases.

[0185] The water level fluctuations when using a floating or submerged module array in the base reservoir depend on the volume of water pumped in relation to the volume of water in the base reservoir. If this ratio is small, e.g. when the sea is used as the base reservoir, the water level fluctuations in the base reservoir are also negligible.

[0186] Therefore, if the pumped storage power plant is designed so that both the upper and lower floating or submerged module arrays are arranged in the base reservoir, the water level in the base reservoir does not change in height during pumping.

[0187] A floating standard module with or without a float changes its height during pumping: when water is pumped from the module reservoir in the floating standard module, the floating standard module emerges, when water is fdled into the module reservoir of the floating standard module, the floating standard module sinks.

[0188] If the reservoir is arranged above or below the float, it is advantageous for the outer horizontal cross-section of the float to be equal to the inner horizontal cross-section of the module reservoir.

[0189] In this case, the change in the water level in the module reservoir of the floating standard module is equal to the change in the float's draught.

[0190] The difference in water levels in the module reservoir of the floating standard module and in the base reservoir therefore remains constant, which is advantageous for regulating the performance of the transfer unit.

[0191] In general, therefore, during pumping, the height difference between the water levels in the lower reservoir and the upper reservoir changes continuously - when the upper reservoir is filled with water from the lower reservoir, the height difference between the water levels increases, and when water is discharged from the upper reservoir to the lower reservoir, the height difference between the water levels decreases. With a high height difference, this change in height difference may only be a few percent of the average height difference, so it should not place increased demands on the power control of the transfer unit.

[0192] If both the lower and upper module arrays consist of floating or submersible module arrays arranged in relatively large base reservoirs, the water levels in the base reservoirs remain almost unchanged during pumping between the lower and upper module arrays.

[0193] The change in the discharge head during pumping in a pumped storage power plant with floatingmodule arrays is influenced by the fact that when the floating module array is submerged by filling its module reservoirs, the water level in the base reservoir rises at the same time, so that the resulting reduction in the height of the floating reservoir is less than the depth of its immersion in the base reservoir. The opposite is true when water is pumped out of the module reservoirs.

[0194] Potential energy in a pumped storage power plant is generally in the form of positional and pressure energy of fluids in reservoirs, or in the form of positional and buoyancy energy of floating conventional modules. The ratios of the individual types of energy change during pumping.

[0195] In an environment with two fluids, pumping one of the fluids can change not only the potential energy of that fluid and the floating standard module, but also the potential energy of the other fluid. One or both fluids can be pumped separately or simultaneously.

[0196] The operating height difference of the denser fluid is formed by the height difference between the level of the denser fluid in the upper reservoir and the level of the denser fluid in the lower reservoir.

[0197] Each reservoir is connected to a transfer pipe.

[0198] The lower reservoir and upper reservoir are connected to each other by a transfer pipe with an energy unit.

[0199] The transfer pump for transferring denser liquids is connected by a transfer pipe with its discharge side to the upper reservoir and its suction side to the lower reservoir.

[0200] The operating height of the denser fluid in the transfer pipe is advantageously higher on the side of the transfer unit connected to the upper reservoir than on the side connected to the lower reservoir.

[0201] The height difference is thus mainly handled by the overpressure, discharge side of the transfer unit, not its vacuum, suction side, which allows a high operating height difference to be achieved and does not limit the operating height difference to the suction height, which is limited to only a few metres, when cavitation does not yet occur in the transfer unit or the column of denser fluid in the suction side of the transfer pipe is not broken.

[0202] The term operating height is used to describe an operating situation where the pipe is filled with a denser fluid and a height difference is created between the levels of the denser fluid in the upper reservoir and in the lower reservoir, which can be readily used for pumping.

[0203] This distinguishes the operating situation from a situation that occurs during repairs or malfunctions, when the fluid is intentionally or accidentally drained from the upper reservoir or even from the pipe and the pumped storage power plant is taken out of operation.

[0204] However, these situations are common for any pumped storage power plant and are not contrary to its nature.

[0205] The stationary standard module can be arranged on a solid foundation, either on dry ground or on the bottom of the base reservoir.

[0206] The module reservoir of a stationary standard module arranged on dry ground is subjected to internal water pressure, which varies from zero to a maximum depending on the water filling. The walls of the module reservoir do not require any special reinforcement and have sufficient dimensional stability over the entire load range.

[0207] The module reservoir of a stationary standard module arranged on the bottom of the base reservoir may have its internal air space open, i.e. freely connected by an air pipe to the atmosphere above the water level in the base reservoir. The walls of this module reservoir are subjected to external water pressure corresponding to the hydrostatic pressure at the given depth.

[0208] The module reservoir of a stationary standard module arranged at the bottom of the base reservoir may have its internal air space closed. It can then be subjected to external water overpressure, which fluctuates depending on the filling of the module reservoir with water from zero to a maximum value corresponding to the hydrostatic pressure at the given depth. Unlike the open design, no air duct is required here, but the increased pressure in the lower reservoir reduces the delivery head.

[0209] The walls of the module reservoir in a submerged arrangement must be dimensioned considerably more than under internal overpressure to prevent the module reservoir from collapsing.

[0210] The module reservoirs according to the invention are advantageously stressed so that the internal overpressure acting on the walls of the module reservoir is greater than or equal to the external overpressure .

[0211] A stationary standard module arranged at the bottom of the base reservoir comprises a module reservoir, which is advantageously formed by a water bag, advantageously arranged below the water level in the base reservoir, which is a submerged arrangement of the module reservoir. The water bag does notneed to comprise any gas space and can be filled only with water. The inner space of the bag is connected by a pipe to the transfer unit. There are openings in the walls of the standard module through which the inner space of the standard module is connected to the water space of the base reservoir.

[0212] When the bag is empty, the standard module is filled with water from the base reservoir. When the bag is filled with water from the second reservoir of the pumped storage power plant, it pushes the water from the standard module through the openings in the walls of the standard module into the base reservoir. The walls of the normal module and the walls of the bag are not subjected to any significant overpressure, as the external and internal pressure on the walls of the normal module and the walls of the bag are permanently balanced.

[0213] The reservoir of the stationary normal module arranged at the bottom of the base reservoir advantageously comprises a membrane.

[0214] The membrane is advantageously attached at half the height of the module reservoir and the area of the membrane corresponds to half the internal surface area of the module reservoir. The working space for the pumped water is advantageously formed by the space below the membrane. A pipe to the transfer unit is then connected to the lower part of the module reservoir, i.e. to the working space below the membrane.

[0215] The space of the module reservoir with the membrane is advantageously arranged below the water level in the base reservoir; this is a submerged arrangement of the module reservoir.

[0216] There are openings in the walls of the module reservoir through which the interior space of the module reservoir above the membrane is connected to the water space of the base reservoir.

[0217] When the working space below the membrane is empty, the membrane adheres to the walls of the lower half of the module reservoir and the space above the membrane, i.e. the entire module reservoir, is fdled with water from the base reservoir. When the working space below the membrane is fdled with water from the second reservoir of the pumped storage power plant, it pushes the water from the space in the module reservoir above the membrane through openings in the walls of the module reservoir into the base reservoir until the pumped water completely fdls the space under the membrane, i.e. the entire module reservoir, and the membrane adheres to the walls of the upper half of the module reservoir. The walls of the module reservoir and the walls of the membrane are practically not subjected to any overpressure, because the external water pressure from the base reservoir and the internal water pressure under the membrane are permanently balanced.

[0218] A standard module can have various shapes, e.g. spherical, vertical or horizontal cylindrical or polyhedral.

[0219] A standard module is advantageously designed so that its parts, in particular the module reservoir and support, and in the case of a stationary embodiment also the base, and in the case of a floating embodiment also the float, occupy the same floor space within the standard module; they preferably have the shape of a vertical cylinder, which is advantageous for module reservoirs and floats in order to stabilise the performance of the transfer unit.

[0220] It is advantageous for the spacing of module reservoirs or standard modules with a support and a module reservoir to be greater than the diameter of the module reservoir, in which case the width of the base or float can be greater than the diameter of the module reservoir, thereby reducing the average load on these load-bearing elements.

[0221] If the internal horizontal cross-section of the module reservoir or float is constant over its entire height, the amount of water pumped is proportional to the change in the water level in this module reservoir.

[0222] The vertical hollow cylinder of a standard module can generally have a different, regular or irregular horizontal cross-section. The standard module according to the invention preferably has a circular horizontal cross-section.

[0223] The parts of a standard module, i.e. the module reservoir, support and float, are subjected to internal overpressure, external overpressure, buckling, bending (due to lateral wind or swaying of the floating module array on the water surface in the base reservoir) or bending (due to lateral wind or swaying of the floating module array on the water surface in the base reservoir), depending on their location in the module and the design of the module array, external overpressure, buckling, bending (due to lateral wind action or rocking of the floating module array on the water surface in the base reservoir), or shear (due to uneven loading of standard modules). For this type of load, a standard module is advantageously manufactured with a circular horizontal cross-section, preferably from sheet metal. This horizontal cross-section of astandard module allows for the best use of the construction material.

[0224] A stationary or floating standard module may advantageously have continuous and / or perforated walls or may advantageously be formed by a lattice cage or net for accommodating a module reservoir formed by a water or air bag.

[0225] In a floating standard module, which comprises a float, a support and a module reservoir, the support is advantageously arranged on the float and the module reservoir is arranged on the support.

[0226] The support and the module reservoir are arranged above the water level in the base reservoir.

[0227] A floating standard module advantageously floats on the water surface in the base reservoir and can advantageously float in the water space of the base reservoir.

[0228] The floating standard module advantageously comprises a float and a module reservoir and floats on the water surface in the basic reservoir .

[0229] The float is advantageously arranged below the module reservoir and may have different volumes and thus different load capacities:According to one embodiment, when the module reservoir is empty, the float is advantageously positioned with its upper edge above the water level in the base reservoir. The water level in the full module reservoir also exceeds the water level in the base reservoir.According to a second design, when the module reservoir is empty, the float is advantageously positioned with its upper edge at the level of the water level in the base reservoir. The water level in the full module reservoir is at the level of the water level in the base reservoir.According to the third embodiment, when the module reservoir is empty, it is advantageous for the float to be positioned with its upper edge below the water level in the base reservoir. The water level in the full module reservoir is also below the water level in the base reservoir.

[0230] A floating standard module with an empty module reservoir may therefore have the bottom of the module reservoir arranged below, at or above the water level in the base reservoir.

[0231] A floating standard module with a full module reservoir then has the water level in the module reservoir below, at or above the water level in the base reservoir.

[0232] The vertical walls of the float reservoir are subjected to internal and external horizontal hydrostatic pressure from the water; depending on the arrangement, the internal pressure is lower, equal to or higher than the external pressure.

[0233] It is advantageous for the module reservoir on the float to be arranged so that the difference in water levels in the module reservoir on the float and in the base reservoir is only negligible.

[0234] The walls of this module reservoir are then subjected to only slight external or internal overpressure, the module reservoir can be made of thin sheet metal and will be relatively very light, and the small thickness of the sheet metal ensures sufficient dimensional stability of the walls of the module reservoir. The most advantageous design in terms of resistance to collapse of the module reservoir walls is a design with internal overpressure, i.e. without external overpressure.

[0235] When filling a module reservoir on a float, the float with the module reservoir is submerged, while the difference in water levels in the module reservoir and in the base reservoir, i.e. the overpressure on the walls of the module reservoir, remains constant.

[0236] Due to the low pressure difference in the module reservoir, the pressure load on the movable water supply to the transfer unit is also low.

[0237] A standard module can also operate with a damaged, partially flooded float, but the capacity of its module reservoir will be partially reduced during repairs.

[0238] The design of the pumping station with floating standard modules allows maximum use of the usable depth of the base reservoir for pumping purposes.

[0239] When minimising the volume of the float, the limiting design is a floating standard module without a separate float, comprising a self-supporting floating module reservoir that also serves as a float.

[0240] The floating group of standard modules is then advantageously formed by self-supporting floating module reservoirs, which are advantageously connected to each other.

[0241] The self-supporting floating module reservoir floats on the water surface in the base reservoir.

[0242] In a self-supporting floating module reservoir, the water level is always lower than the water level in the base reservoir.

[0243] The self-supporting floating module reservoir absorbs the load from the external hydrostatic pressure of the water in the base reservoir.

[0244] The self-supporting floating module reservoir acts as a float in its entire submerged part and as a module reservoir in the part that is fdled with water.

[0245] The minimum draught (minimum displacement) of an empty self-supporting floating module reservoir is based on the difference in water levels in the self-supporting floating module reservoir and in the base reservoir.

[0246] The maximum draught (maximum displacement) of a self-supporting floating module reservoir is determined by its total draught when the module reservoir is fdled with water.

[0247] The operating stroke of a self-supporting floating module reservoir is the difference between its maximum and minimum draught.

[0248] When fdled with water, the self-supporting floating module reservoir submerges, while the difference in water levels in the self-supporting floating module reservoir and in the base reservoir remains constant. The difference between the external and internal hydrostatic pressure of the water means that a constant external overpressure acts on the walls of the entire submerged part of the self-supporting floating module reservoir fdled with water. Above the water level in the self-supporting floating module reservoir, this overpressure gradually decreases to zero at the water level in the base reservoir.

[0249] The self-supporting floating module reservoir can be made of thin sheet metal, which makes it relatively very light and, when empty, has only a negligible minimum draught, the submerged part is therefore only subjected to slight external water overpressure, so that even the small sheet thickness ensures sufficient strength against collapse of the walls of the self-supporting floating module reservoir. With a greater minimum draught, it is advantageous to reinforce the self-supporting module reservoir with internal stiffeners to prevent collapse due to internal overpressure, which increases the weight and price of the self- supporting module reservoir.

[0250] At the same time, this low displacement also results in low static water pressure in the movable inlet to the transfer unit.

[0251] The design of the self-supporting floating module reservoir is therefore very inexpensive even with a large maximum draught.

[0252] The pumped water is separated from the water in the base reservoir by the thin walls of the self- supporting floating module reservoir.

[0253] In a standard floating module, a pipe branch is attached to the bottom of the module reservoir and connected to the power unit by a movable inlet (preferably a rubber or plastic hose).

[0254] The pumping of liquids between the module reservoirs must be as even as possible to minimise mechanical stress in the module array structure.

[0255] In a stationary module array, it is also important to ensure that the common base is evenly loaded to prevent cracking. In a floating module array, care must be taken to prevent excessive tilting.

[0256] The uniformity of water fdling in the module reservoirs can be ensured by regulating the water flow using shut-off valves in the transfer pipe, regulating the output of the power units, operating the power units in balance with the centre of gravity of the pumped storage power plant and / or regulating the gas overpressure above the water level in the module reservoirs.

[0257] The water flow or air flow above the water level is regulated by throttling the flow, with the throttling intensity being higher for module reservoirs that are closer to the transfer unit.

[0258] Increased water pressures and increased overpressure or underpressure of air in the module reservoirs place increased demands on the design of the module reservoirs and piping.

[0259] The internal space of the pumped storage power plant may experience increased temperatures due to the heating of the pumped storage power plant by waste heat, which will not be a favourable environment for the reliable operation of shut-off devices and other equipment.

[0260] It is therefore advantageous to place shut-off valves and other air flow control equipment above the upper module reservoirs, i.e. in an outdoor environment, where temperatures are likely to be much lower and therefore more favourable for reliable operation.

[0261] The operation of a pumped storage power plant with a floating module array should also be adapted to uneven loads caused by adverse weather conditions, in particular: during prolonged unidirectional increased wind speeds, it is advantageous to maintain a greater amount of water in the windward part of the floating module array than in the leeward part of the floating module array, thereby balancing the floating module array, it is advantageous to fdl the parts of the floating module array on which ice forms with less water thanthe others in order to balance their load.

[0262] In a pumped storage power plant, it is advantageous to secure stationary or floating module arrays against overturning during prolonged unidirectional increased wind speeds by maintaining a certain minimum amount of water in the module reservoirs, thereby increasing the weight and thus the stability of the module array.

[0263] A pumped storage power plant can consist of a cascade of reservoirs comprising at least three separate reservoirs with a height difference connected to each other by pipes and energy units in stages.

[0264] The first stage consists of the first, lowest reservoir and the second, higher reservoir. The second stage consists of the second reservoir and the third, highest reservoir.

[0265] In each stage, the lower reservoir is the lower reservoir, and the higher reservoir is the upper reservoir.

[0266] It may also be advantageous to connect the first and third reservoirs of the reservoir cascade, at least for pumping or transferring water.

[0267] Each additional higher reservoir forms another, higher stage of the reservoir cascade with the lower reservoir.

[0268] Power units may exhibit reduced energy efficiency when there are large differences in height between the lower and upper reservoirs .

[0269] A pumped storage power plant therefore advantageously comprises an additional reservoir arranged between the lower reservoir and the upper reservoir, creating a cascade of reservoirs, with at least one reservoir consisting of a module array comprising a module reservoir.

[0270] The reservoirs in the reservoir cascade may advantageously have different volumes adapted to the conditions of the subsoil and the conditions of the building permit.

[0271] The smaller the volume of the additional reservoir compared to the lower or upper reservoir, the more frequently the two stages of the reservoir cascade must alternate during the pumping cycle to achieve maximum capacity.

[0272] By using one additional reservoir, two stages of a reservoir cascade are created in the pumped storage power plant. The order of the stages is preferably counted from the bottom. The first stage of the reservoir cascade is therefore formed by the lower reservoir and the additional reservoir, while the second stage of the reservoir cascade is formed by the additional reservoir and the upper reservoir.

[0273] The nature of this advantageous design means that the pumped storage power plant can also comprise several additional reservoirs, creating multiple stages of reservoir cascades. Each additional reservoir therefore increases the number of stages in the reservoir cascade by one.

[0274] An advantageous design of a pumped storage power plant comprises a separate pump unit for each stage of the reservoir cascade.

[0275] The difference in water levels between the reservoirs during pumping and turbine operation is advantageously half the difference between the upper reservoir and the lower reservoir in each stage of the reservoir cascade, and the pump units and transfer pipes are then designed for half the hydrostatic pressure. The length of the transfer pipeline between adjacent reservoirs is shortened and losses in the transfer unit are reduced, but the transfer power plant requires twice the number of power units.

[0276] Another advantageous design of a pumped storage power plant advantageously comprises a common pump unit for turbine operation, in which water is discharged from the upper reservoir directly into the lower reservoir, the pump unit for turbine operation and the pump pipe must be designed for the hydrostatic pressure for the entire height difference.

[0277] This further design of a pumped storage power plant advantageously comprises a separate pump unit for pumping operation for each stage of the reservoir cascade or may also comprise a pump unit for pumping operation from the lower reservoir directly into the upper reservoir.

[0278] The additional reservoir is, by the nature of the invention, of a different height from the lower and upper reservoirs.

[0279] The additional reservoir is advantageously arranged on a separate foundation.

[0280] The additional reservoir may be a natural or artificial reservoir.

[0281] The additional reservoir is advantageously formed by a module array and is structurally connected to the lower or upper module array.

[0282] It is advantageous for the additional module array to be arranged on a common foundation with the lower module array or with the upper module array.

[0283] The module array may comprise an additional array of module reservoirs.

[0284] The additional set of module reservoirs is connected (preferably structurally) to the lower or upper set of modules in such a way that the reservoir sets are arranged one above the other in the support space.

[0285] Under the additional set of module reservoirs, there is space in the support for the transfer piping and a working platform for operating and maintaining the equipment.

[0286] The additional module reservoir system can be arranged in the space under the supports above the lower module reservoir system.

[0287] The additional module reservoir system can be arranged in the support area below the upper module reservoir system.

[0288] The advantage of this arrangement is that it saves space on the land where the pumped storage power plant is built. The disadvantage of this arrangement is that, given the buoyancy of the float or the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil, the height of the module reservoirs must be reduced, i.e. the amount of fluid pumped, and / or the weight of the supports must be reduced. The supports also increase the cost of the pumped storage power plant.

[0289] Tall module reservoirs require thick walls, which increases their weight and price.

[0290] Therefore, it may be advantageous to create a multi-storey standard module with module reservoirs so that instead of one high module reservoir, several module reservoirs with a lower construction height and thus a lower wall thickness are arranged one above the other in the standard module, preferably separated in height by a support.

[0291] The module array can thus comprise several floors one above the other, with each floor consisting of a layer of module reservoirs or a layer of supports with module reservoirs.

[0292] In each level, a branch equipped with a shut-off valve is preferably connected to the module reservoir from the vertical transfer pipe. When using (filling or emptying) the module reservoir in a given level, the shut-off valve in the corresponding branch is opened and closed again after use of the module reservoir. This ensures that the hydrostatic pressure of the water from the module reservoirs arranged above is not transferred to the module reservoir. After closing the shut-off valve on a specific module reservoir, it is also possible to perform maintenance on this module reservoir while the other module reservoirs are in operation.

[0293] It is advantageous to design a multi-storey standard module so that a support is arranged on the base over the entire height of the standard module and arched bottoms are arranged one above the other in the interior space of the support so that, together with the walls of the support, they form the spaces of the module reservoirs. The highest module reservoir can be arranged on the support, so it can have the same diameter as the support below it.

[0294] The walls of the support can be advantageously designed so that they are dimensioned to carry the vertical load from their own weight and all water contents and, in addition, in sections where the support also forms a module reservoir, its walls are reinforced to withstand internal water overpressure. The load on the support walls increases gradually from top to bottom, so the wall thickness must also increase.

[0295] It is advantageous to leave space under each module reservoir for horizontal water and transfer pipes.

[0296] The module array can advantageously comprise a set of power units for each floor.

[0297] With this arrangement of the module array, the required length of the horizontal transfer pipe increases, but it can have a smaller diameter due to the lower flow rate.

[0298] The individual module reservoirs on each floor are preferably ventilated separately.

[0299] On floors without a support, the transfer pipe is routed through the space between the module reservoirs or inside the module reservoirs. In this arrangement, access to the pipes is therefore somewhat complicated for maintenance and operation.

[0300] During pumping, the main load on all standard modules is cyclic.

[0301] In addition to the main load, other irregular, random loads must also be taken into account, in particular the uneven load on all parts of standard modules due to wind, dynamic water shocks in the pipes, air overpressure in the pipes and in the module reservoirs, temperature changes, and, in the case of floating standard modules, floating groups of standard modules or module arrays, also due to their tilting and swaying on the water surface in the base reservoir.

[0302] The float and module reservoir are pressure vessels that are subjected to internal and / or external overpressure, so they are advantageously provided with a lower and upper arched bottom, which bestwithstands this load.

[0303] The ground plan of the pumped storage power plant module array can be regular or irregular. For stationary module arrays, the area of suitable load-bearing capacity of the subsoil must be taken into account, while for floating module arrays, the shape of the depth levels of the base reservoir must be taken into account.

[0304] In a stationary module array, the height level of the individual flat parts of the bases can advantageously follow the sloping relief of the subsoil on the site where the stationary module array is to be built, while preventing landslides.

[0305] In this pumped storage power plant, only reservoirs with the same height, i.e. on contour lines, can be connected via a transfer pipe and a transfer unit so that they have the same discharge head.

[0306] It is advantageous for the lower reservoir or lower group of standard modules or lower module array to be able to accommodate not only all the water from the upper reservoir or upper group of standard modules or upper module array, but also all the water from the relevant water pipe.

[0307] The floating module array can have a simple design, and its floats can advantageously copy the shape of the base reservoir bottom with their walls and bottom in order to make the most of the base reservoir volume for pumping and, for example, to allow the floating module array to be arranged on the bottom during repairs. Furthermore, it can be made very voluminous, yet well balanced and with a large draught depending on the size of the base reservoir.

[0308] It is advantageous to leave sufficient free water space around the floating module array, especially between the bottom of the floating module array and the bottom of the base reservoir, where a depth reserve must be maintained to prevent damage to the floating module array or the base reservoir in the event of lateral deflection or swaying of the floating module array in strong winds and waves or during an earthquake, when pressure surges from the base reservoir are better dispersed around the floating module array.

[0309] After deducting the depth reserve from the total depth of the base reservoir, the usable depth for the immersion of the floating module array remains available in the base reservoir.

[0310] One part of the usable depth is used for the draught of the floats when the floating module array is empty, and the other part of the usable depth is used to increase the draught of the floats by pumping water into the module reservoirs of the floating module array, i.e. the operating stroke.

[0311] Due to evaporation, it is necessary to replenish the water in the base reservoir to maintain the usable depth for safe operation of the floating module array.

[0312] Greater evaporation of water, clogging of the bottom of the base reservoir or clogging of the walls of the floats, module reservoirs and pipes with mineral deposits will increase the draught of the empty floating module array.

[0313] If necessary, the overall draught can be reduced by partially draining water from the floating module array or reducing its operating stroke to prevent damage. This reduces the capacity of the pumped storage power plant but keeps it in operation until the condition of the module reservoirs can be restored so that the usable depth in the base reservoir is not exceeded.

[0314] The load-bearing capacity of the subsoil in a stationary module array, as well as the buoyancy of the floats (or draft equal to the usable depth) in a floating module array, are used to support the weight of the module array itself and the weight of the pumped water.

[0315] The weight of a standard module is proportional to its draft or the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil.

[0316] The capacity, weight and, consequently, the price of a standard module depend on the ratio of the water height in the module reservoir to the float immersion or the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil. In general, the price of a module array depends on the ratio of the weight of the pumped water in the module reservoirs to the weight of the module array.

[0317] The amount of potential energy of the water pumped in a pumped storage power plant depends on the difference in water levels between the upper and lower reservoirs (i.e. the head) and on the amount of water pumped.

[0318] The accumulated energy is proportional to the product of the weight (height) of the pumped water and the discharge head.

[0319] The weight of the module array for the purpose of checking the load -bearing capacity of the subsoil is generally understood to be the sum of the weights of the parts of the module array structure, including any bases.

[0320] In connection with the possibility of using higher supports under the module reservoirs, it is generally possible to choose the optimal variant between the extreme options: a lighter and therefore lower module array and a larger pumped water filling, a heavier and therefore taller module array and a smaller pumped water filling.

[0321] For the option where the head in the pumped storage power plant is formed only by the support under the module reservoir and if the usable depth or load-bearing capacity of the subsoil is a limiting factor, the following generally applies to optimise the parameters of the pumped storage power plant with a stationary or floating modular system:

[0322] The sum of the weight of the module array and the weight of the pumped water is equal to the usable depth or load-bearing capacity of the subsoil.

[0323] The product of the weight of the module array and the weight of the pumped water is maximum when they are equal.

[0324] The design of the pumped storage power plant according to the invention, with a module array comprising a support and a module reservoir, allows high capacity to be achieved by utilising the weight of the standard module as much as possible to create the support. The effective design of the standard modules according to the invention then allows the weight of the standard module material, after deducting the weight of the module reservoir, to be sufficient for the construction of a very high support, which thus allows the discharge head to be increased to many times the height of the water in the module reservoir.

[0325] Standard modules, groups of standard modules or a module array according to the invention may have their centre of gravity high above the water level in the base reservoir or above the level of the base and therefore, especially in the case of uneven filling or accidental lateral loading by strong winds, they may become unstable if the design is incorrect.

[0326] Tall standard modules with a slender shape are advantageously secured with fixed supports to ensure stability.

[0327] The stability of a group of standard modules can generally be ensured by making it sufficiently wide. For a floating group of standard modules, it is advantageous to ensure that, based on the catamaran principle, it is as wide as possible in relation to its height above the water level in the base reservoir.

[0328] Given the height of the centre of gravity of a group of standard modules, its width will be derived from the forces that can cause it to tilt ( ), and in the case of a floating group of standard modules, also from the choice of permissible tilt.

[0329] The height of the centre of gravity of a group of standard modules depends mainly on the ratio of the weight of the water in the module reservoirs to the weight of the group of standard modules.

[0330] Advantageous division of the module reservoirs by built-in partitions or the creation of a module array with smaller module reservoirs slows down or prevents the overflow of large volumes of water in the module reservoirs, thereby further improving the stability of the group of standard modules.

[0331] Internal partitions and / or cavities are also advantageously used as reinforcements of the module reservoir to ensure its strength and dimensional stability and to reduce the wall thickness of the structural elements of the standard module.

[0332] For model calculations to compare the energy efficiency of different pumped storage power plant designs, it is sufficient to consider only the decisive physical variables and to monitor only their equivalents instead of the exact energy values.

[0333] For example, the equivalent Ee of the change in potential energy of a floating module reservoir, expressed by the head V and the working stroke N, can be simplified by multiplying both quantities:

[0334] Ee = V.N

[0335] Floats, module reservoirs and supports in conventional modules are pressure vessels. In terms of the main load, floats and module reservoirs are mainly loaded by internal and / or external overpressure and axial force, while supports are mainly loaded by axial force.

[0336] The modular design of the pumped storage power plant simplifies its manufacture and assembly.

[0337] The floor plan layout of the module reservoirs or standard modules, preferably connected in a triangular formation, is advantageous as it ensures an optimal solution for the strength and rigidity of the group of standard modules, as well as for access for inspection and maintenance of the standard modules.

[0338] A group of standard modules connected to each other is quite rigid and the individual standard modules cannot be moved vertically relative to each other.

[0339] However, when the group of standard modules is very wide, its flexibility becomes apparent. Inorder to make the best possible use of the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil and bases and to prevent additional shear and bending stresses from occurring in the structure of the group of standard modules, it is necessary that the pressure of the standard modules on their load-bearing elements, i.e. bases or floats, is evenly and continuously distributed i.e. in each standard module it must correspond to the load-bearing capacity of the relevant load-bearing element.

[0340] When repairing a module reservoir of one of the standard modules, it is sufficient to empty only the given module reservoir, e.g. by pumping the water into the module reservoirs in the other standard modules. During the repair, only the module reservoir being repaired will be out of operation, while all other standard modules can continue to operate. An increase in shear stress between the standard modules must be taken into account.

[0341] The load capacity of the float in a floating standard module is determined by hydrostatic buoyancy and can be regulated.

[0342] The load-bearing capacity of bases at pumped storage power plants with stationary module reservoirs may change over time. For example, long-term loading by the module array may cause compression and compaction of the subsoil.

[0343] If the subsoil beneath the array is not homogeneous, especially in undermined areas, the subsidence of the subsoil and bases will not be uniform. The structure of the system will not be evenly supported and additional shear and bending stresses will occur.

[0344] The base of the module array must then be repaired or rectified by changing the height of the gap between the structure of the standard modules and the bases, preferably by inserting or removing shims.

[0345] It is therefore advisable to measure and evaluate the subsidence of the bases and the entire module array regularly or continuously.

[0346] In standard modules, it is advantageous to create adjustment spaces for adjusting their position on the base, preferably with the lower part of the standard module under the module reservoir being provided with horizontal reinforcement and mounting holes in the walls of the standard module.

[0347] Pneumatic lifting bags can be inserted through the mounting holes into the adjustment space between the horizontal reinforcement and the base, and the standard module can be lifted by filling the bags with air. A pad of a thickness determined by the measurement results can be inserted into the gap between the standard module and the base, and the standard module can be lowered back onto the pad by deflating the bags.

[0348] To reduce the required lifting force, it is advantageous to lighten the rectified standard module or even the adjacent standard modules for the duration of the rectification, preferably by pumping the water into the module reservoirs in the other standard modules. After completion of the rectification, the standard module can be reloaded by pumping water into its module reservoir.

[0349] If the pumped storage power plant is made up of many standard modules, the probability of an emergency spill of all pumped water is negligible.

[0350] The pumped storage power plant can therefore be built close to populated areas without endangering the safety of people and property in the area.

[0351] It is advantageous to build a stationary system of pumped storage power plant modules in a drained surface mine, which is drainless. However, water flowing into this area must be pumped out to prevent flooding of the pumped storage power plant. Landslides may also be a risk here.

[0352] The float is the lower part of a standard module, which is almost completely submerged in the base reservoir, and its buoyancy determines the weight and thus the gravity of all parts of the standard module. The float is a pressure vessel, preferably a closed pressure vessel, which is mainly loaded by external water pressure and the weight of the parts of the standard module it carries. The lateral external water overpressure acting on the walls of the float increases linearly with the depth of immersion of the float. Floats may have internal rings to reinforce them against external overpressure and to ensure dimensional stability.

[0353] Floats are preferably filled with gas, preferably inert gas, preferably nitrogen, preferably dried gas, which reduces corrosion of the float material.

[0354] In order to reduce the weight of the structure, the float is preferably filled with gas so that its internal overpressure is as close as possible to the external overpressure of the water when submerged in the base reservoir. The float therefore does not need to be as thoroughly reinforced against collapse as in the case of one-sided loading by external overpressure and can be considerably lighter.

[0355] It is advantageous for the internal overpressure of the float to be equal to the maximum externaloverpressure of the water, which corresponds to the full immersion of the float.

[0356] It is advantageous for the internal overpressure of the float to be higher than the external water overpressure corresponding to their maximum specific immersion depth in the base reservoir, which increases the float's resistance to accidental external overload due to impact with the bottom or sabotage.

[0357] The base is preferably made of concrete, preferably reinforced concrete, preferably prestressed concrete.

[0358] When the module array is heated by waste heat, it can be expected that the bases and steel structures of standard modules will have different temperatures and therefore exhibit different expansion.

[0359] The bases under individual standard modules or under groups of standard modules are therefore preferably separated from each other by expansion joints.

[0360] Module reservoirs and floats, as well as pipes and energy units, are exposed to water, so it is advisable to make them from corrosion-resistant material, even if it is more expensive. It is advantageous to protect their surface against mineral deposits.

[0361] The supports around the perimeter of groups of standard modules or module arrays, or at least the perimeter parts of the supports, are advantageously made of corrosion-resistant material. The supports in the interior of a group of standard modules or module arrays can then be made of cheaper material.

[0362] The supports of standard modules are subjected to variable loads from the weight of water during operation and are compressed to different heights. The transfer pipe is permanently loaded with the same amount of water and is not compressed over its entire height, so its height does not correspond to the height of the supports. An expansion device must therefore be installed in the transfer pipe to allow its height to be continuously adjusted to the height of the supports. Expansion devices are advantageously bellowing compensators, preferably arc compensators arranged in the transfer pipe.

[0363] According to the second independently used alternative feature, the module reservoir comprises an internal gas space which is sealed against the outside air and connected directly or by means of a vent pipe to another sealed gas space, e.g. a gas storage reservoir or an air chamber. This restriction of free access of air from the external atmosphere reduces corrosion of the internal surface of the metal walls of the module reservoirs. Furthermore, this prevents evaporation of the pumped water in the pumped storage power plant and thus also limits the formation of mineral deposits on the internal walls of the module reservoirs, pipes and power units.

[0364] In combination with another alternative feature of the invention, the module reservoir in the pumped storage power plant may also be open or may not comprise any gas space.

[0365] The upper bottoms of the module reservoirs are advantageously equipped with ventilation openings or ventilation pipes so that the internal air space above the water level is advantageously freely connected to the ambient air, which prevents an increase in internal air overpressure when filling the module reservoirs or air under, and internal overpressure in the module reservoirs is caused only by the hydrostatic pressure of the water filling.

[0366] According to the second independently used alternative feature, the gas space of the module reservoir in the lower reservoir is advantageously connected to the gas space of the module reservoir in the upper reservoir, allowing closed gas circulation between the lower and upper module reservoirs during water transfer. If the gas is inert, it significantly reduces corrosion of the inner surface of the metal walls of the module reservoirs.

[0367] The vent pipes of the upper and lower module reservoirs are advantageously connected to prevent evaporation of the water filling in the pumped storage power plant, thereby also limiting the formation of mineral deposits on the inner walls of the module reservoirs, pipes and power units. The weight of the pumped water in the module reservoirs does not change, so it does not need to be topped up and its purity and chemical composition can be easily stabilised and monitored. The vent pipes of all module reservoirs in a group of standard modules or in a modular system are conveniently connected, which facilitates water level equalisation during uneven filling and emptying of the module reservoirs. It should be noted that losses occur during the flow of vented air during water transfer, which reduce the efficiency of the transfer.

[0368] It is advantageous to connect the vent pipe from the module reservoir to a gas bag arranged above the module reservoir in the standard module space. When the module reservoir is filled with pumped water, the gas from the module reservoir is blown into the gas bag and when the pumped water is drained from the module reservoir, the gas is sucked from the gas bag back into the module reservoir. This method of venting the module reservoirs also prevents the evaporation of water in the pumped storage power plant,and there is no need to install long vent pipes between the upper and lower module reservoirs.

[0369] The reservoir of a stationary standard module preferably comprises a plastic membrane.

[0370] The plastic membrane is advantageously attached at half the height of the module reservoir and the area of the membrane corresponds to half the internal surface of the module reservoir. The working space for the pumped water is advantageously formed by the space under the membrane. A pipe is then connected to the bottom of the module reservoir, i.e. to the working space below the membrane, to the transfer unit. A vent hole is provided in the upper bottom of the module reservoir, or a vent pipe is connected, through which the interior space of the module reservoir above the membrane is connected to the atmosphere.

[0371] If the working space under the membrane is empty, the membrane adheres to the walls of the lower half of the module reservoir and the space above the membrane, i.e. the entire module reservoir, is filled with air from the atmosphere. If the working space under the membrane is filled with water from the second module reservoir of the pumped storage power plant, the air is forced out of the space in the module reservoir above the membrane through openings in the upper bottom of the module reservoir into the atmosphere until the pumped water completely fills the space under the membrane, i.e. the entire module reservoir, and the membrane adheres to the walls of the upper half of the module reservoir.

[0372] This method of venting the module reservoirs also prevents the evaporation of water in the pumped storage power plant and eliminates the need to install long vent pipes between the upper and lower module reservoirs.

[0373] The use of an inert gas to fill the space above the water level in the module reservoirs is advantageous in preventing the undesirable growth of flora and fauna in the pumped storage power plant, thereby reducing the density of the water and wear on the hydraulic equipment and distribution systems.

[0374] For these reasons, the need to clean the walls of the module reservoirs and pipes from organic and inorganic deposits is reduced.

[0375] It is advantageous to leave space above each module reservoir for ventilation pipes.

[0376] The space between the module reservoirs and the entire space inside and outside the supports can also be filled with nitrogen or another suitable inert gas, preferably dried gas, to increase corrosion protection.

[0377] It is advisable to continuously monitor the composition and pressure of the protective gas filling in standard modules, their parts and the space between them using measuring instruments, which allows for the timely detection of leaks in the structure and the rapid elimination of faults.

[0378] In a pumped storage power plant, it is advantageous to install permanent inert gas distribution systems to enable rapid refilling or replacement of the gas filling to ensure maximum reliability, safety and service life of the standard modules.

[0379] Pressure vessels, transfer pipes and, if necessary, vent pipes are advantageously equipped with safety valves that prevent the safe overpressure or underpressure of the inert gas from being exceeded, so that no damage to parts of the pumped storage power plant can occur.

[0380] For greater depths of the base reservoir, it is advantageous to divide the float into several sections separated by a pressure barrier, preferably in the form of a domed bottom.

[0381] Each section of the float, also known as a segment, is filled with gas, preferably to internal overpressure, which is balanced as much as possible with the external overpressure of the water corresponding to the greatest depth of immersion of the segment in the base reservoir.

[0382] With increasing depth, the segments are therefore filled with gas to a higher internal overpressure, which is balanced with the external overpressure of the water, and the wall thickness of the segments can be significantly smaller than if there were a uniform internal overpressure throughout the float corresponding to the maximum depth of immersion of the float in the base reservoir. This further significantly reduces the weight of the float.

[0383] In the upper days of the segments, it is advantageous to create transfer overpressure chambers to allow maintenance personnel to enter segments with different gas overpressures. The chambers must be equipped with reliable closures to prevent the escape of gas with different overpressures between the segments.

[0384] The depth of the base reservoirs, especially those of natural origin, is not usually uniform. Since the bottom of the base reservoir usually slopes gradually to its greatest depth in one or more places, the deeper levels occupy a smaller area than the shallower levels.

[0385] Similarly, the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil is unlikely to be uniform across the entire areaof the pumped storage power plant.

[0386] In order to achieve the highest possible capacity, it is advantageous to make the best possible use of not only the area of the pumped storage power plant, but also the depth of the base reservoir and the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil.

[0387] The module array can be conveniently assembled from standard modules with a uniform height according to the selected depth level in the base reservoir or according to the lowest load-bearing capacity of the subsoil in the module array area.

[0388] The deeper the level selected for deeper immersion of the floats, the smaller the area occupied by the floating module array in the base reservoir.

[0389] However, as the area of the floating module array decreases according to the selected depth level and the depth increases, the stability of the floating module array decreases, which must therefore have a lower displacement height, and this can adversely increase the unit price and investment costs of the floating module array in relation to its capacity.

[0390] If both the lower and upper module arrays are designed in this way, all power units in this pumped storage power plant have the same head and, if they have the same power, they can be interchangeable, e.g. for total power control or in the event of a fault.

[0391] The module array can be conveniently assembled from standard modules of different heights according to the depth profde of the base reservoir or according to the different load-bearing capacity of the subsoil in the area of the module array.

[0392] In order to increase the capacity of the pumped storage power plant, not only the area of the base reservoir or land is better utilised, but also the depth of the base reservoir or the different load-bearing capacity of the subsoil.

[0393] This design allows the centre of gravity of the pumped storage power plant to remain aligned with the buoyancy axis of the floating module array or with the centre of gravity of the subsoil load-bearing capacity.

[0394] This fact, together with the large width of the group of standard modules or the module array, ensures good stability even with standard modules of great height.

[0395] In terms of stability against overturning, a stationary group of standard modules or a stationary module array does not need to be as wide as a floating group of standard modules or a floating module array, because the subsoil is much less yielding than water.

[0396] The width of a stationary module array will therefore be selected primarily according to the required capacity rather than to ensure its stability.

[0397] A module array with standard modules of different heights according to depth levels or subsoil load-bearing capacity may advantageously include: module reservoirs of uniform height for all depth levels or subsoil load-bearing capacities, with supports of different heights, or module reservoirs of different heights according to depth levels or subsoil load-bearing capacity, with supports of uniform and / or different heights.

[0398] For each group of standard modules with the same height and height position of the module reservoirs, a corresponding group of energy units with the same delivery head is advantageously available.

[0399] In a floating module array, it is advantageous for the height of the module reservoirs for standard modules to be the same for all depth levels, but their horizontal cross-section is different, whereby

[0400] the ratio of the horizontal cross-section of the module reservoirs for standard modules of a certain depth level to the horizontal cross-section of the module reservoirs for standard modules of the greatest depth level is equal to

[0401] the ratio of the float draft for standard modules of a certain depth level to the float draft for standard modules of the greatest depth level.

[0402] Similarly, in a stationary module array, it is advantageous for the height of the module reservoirs in standard modules to be the same for all base or subsoil bearing capacities, but their horizontal cross-section varies, where the ratio of the horizontal cross-section of the module reservoirs in standard modules with a certain load-bearing capacity of the bases or subsoil to the horizontal cross-section of the module reservoirs in standard modules with the highest load-bearing capacity of the bases or subsoil is equal to the ratio of a certain load-bearing capacity of the bases or subsoil to the highest load-bearing capacity of the bases or subsoil.

[0403] A module array of this design with standard modules of different heights according to depth levels or base or subsoil load-bearing capacity may advantageously comprise module reservoirs of the same height, with the same support height and the same displacement height for all standard modules. The modules differ only in the depth of the floats or the load-bearing capacity of the bases or subsoil and the diameter of the module reservoirs. Therefore, all module reservoirs in the entire module array can be connected by a common collection pipe.

[0404] Pumping can be carried out using any transfer unit regardless of the reservoir diameter, a single type of power unit can be used, and the requirements for coordination and regulation of their operation are reduced.

[0405] It may also be advantageous for the diameter of the supports to be the same as the diameter of the module reservoirs with a reduced diameter, which simplifies the load transfer between them in terms of design.

[0406] The disadvantage is that with conventional modules with a lower depth level or load-bearing capacity of the bases or subsoil, the average discharge head is reduced as the height of the module reservoirs increases.

[0407] Since the diameter of the floats and the spacing between standard modules remain unchanged, the reinforcements between the module reservoirs or between the smaller diameter supports must be wider and thicker in order to bridge the distance between the standard modules and ensure the rigidity of the connection between the standard modules.

[0408] In a group of standard modules, the standard modules are preferably connected to each other by means of vertical and horizontal reinforcements.

[0409] It is also advantageous for parts of a standard module to be reinforced with internal horizontal and / or vertical reinforcements.

[0410] A group of standard modules is preferably reinforced at least at the level of the upper and lower edges of the module reservoirs, and in the case of a floating group of standard modules also at the level of the upper and lower edges of the floats, reinforced with horizontal flanges, which can significantly increase the bending stiffness of the module array and reduce the horizontal load on the collection and transfer piping.

[0411] Modules with vertical external reinforcements can be advantageously manufactured with a diameter of up to 3.6 m so that their parts can be easily transported from the manufacturer to the installation site by rail.

[0412] The horizontal distance between standard modules should be 0.4 m, generally so that the area of the module array is used as efficiently as possible for the purposes of the pumped storage power plant, but at the same time so that both sides of the walls of the standard modules and stiffeners can be inspected and maintained.

[0413] A group of standard modules reinforced only with vertical stiffeners is flexible in the horizontal plane.

[0414] When rocking on the surface or in the event of uneven subsidence of the subsoil, the entire group of standard modules deforms like an accordion - the walls of the standard modules deform alternately so that the horizontal circular cross-section of the standard modules changes to elliptical, flattens or elongates.

[0415] The collection pipe under the lower and upper reservoirs must be equipped with compensators to prevent stress from the horizontal deformation of the module reservoirs from being transferred to it.

[0416] The stiffness of a group of standard modules in the horizontal plane will be determined practically only by the stiffness of the day in the module reservoirs or, where applicable, in the floats.

[0417] A stationary group of standard modules will be particularly rigid in the area where the supports are anchored to the bases.

[0418] Due to the large diameter of standard modules, the deformation of the walls of standard modules will be kept within the limits of the material's elasticity and no accidental damage will occur.

[0419] It is advantageous for standard modules in a floating group of standard modules to be reinforced with horizontal stiffeners at a level above the water level in the base reservoir. These stiffeners will serve to transfer horizontal forces between the standard modules and the towing anchors of the floating module array with floating groups of standard modules on the shore of the base reservoir when the floating module array is loaded by side winds.

[0420] When the floating group of standard modules rocks on the water surface in the base reservoir, thefloating group of standard modules will bend cyclically, deforming in the horizontal plane both at the level of the floats at the level of the module reservoirs; in the first half of the cycle, it will compress in the upper plane and expand in the lower plane, and in the second half of the cycle, it will deform in the opposite direction.

[0421] It is advantageous for all standard modules in the group of standard modules to be reinforced with connected horizontal stiffeners at a level above the water level in the base reservoir. The stiffeners will serve to transfer horizontal forces between the standard modules and the towing anchors of the floating module array on the shore of the base reservoir when the floating module array is loaded by crosswinds and will also prevent horizontal deformation of the standard modules at the level of the horizontal stiffeners.

[0422] When the floating group of standard modules rocks on the water surface in the base reservoir, the floating group of standard modules will bend, deforming slightly horizontally at the level of the floats, with most of the deformation occurring at the level of the module reservoirs. There will be no deformation in the horizontal plane at the level of the horizontal stiffener. The advantage is that the collection pipe and working platform will not be horizontally deformed at this level either.

[0423] A stationary group of standard modules will behave similarly.

[0424] When the subsoil subsides in a certain area within the area built up by a group of standard modules, the group of standard modules will bend, but will not deform horizontally at the level of the bases, and most of the deformation will occur at the level of the module reservoirs. - in the area of subsidence of the subsoil and, consequently, the bases, the standard modules at the level of the module reservoirs will be compressed in the horizontal plane.

[0425] If subsidence of the subsoil occurs at the edge of a group of standard modules, the standard modules at the level of the module reservoirs will expand.

[0426] Similarly, when exposed to lateral wind, the deformation of the module array will be most noticeable at the level of the module reservoirs.

[0427] The horizontal stiffeners between the floats are advantageously provided with openings to allow vertical water flow around the floats, and the vertical stiffeners between the floats in the upper part of the floats are advantageously provided with openings to allow horizontal air flow between the floats above the water level during vertical movement of the floats in the water during pumping or when the floating group of standard modules rocks on the surface of the base reservoir. The air space between the floats above the water level in the base reservoir is freely connected to the air space of the base reservoir via vent holes. During rocking and vertical movement of the floating group of standard modules during pumping, the water in the base reservoir flows vertically around the floats. This limits the height fluctuation of the water level in the base reservoir.

[0428] It is advantageous to close the vent holes to prevent water evaporation in this space and to limit the formation of mineral deposits on the outer walls of the floats. The enclosed space between the floats helps to compensate for the swaying of the floating group of standard modules; when the floating group of standard modules sways, the water in the base reservoir flows horizontally around the floats. The rocking of the floating group of standard modules can cause greater fluctuations in the water level in the base reservoir. It is advisable to check and, if necessary, regulate the gas pressure in this enclosed space to prevent the floating group of standard modules from tilting permanently. In this design, it is advantageous to fill the space between the floats above the water level with an inert gas to reduce corrosion of the affected parts of the floats.

[0429] The floating group of standard modules may advantageously comprise a continuous bottom of the float space.

[0430] It is advantageous for the continuous bottom of the floating group of standard modules to be formed so that the spaces between the floats of the individual standard modules are closed by arched bottoms at the level of their lower bottoms, and it is advantageous to use the same material as the floats to close these spaces.

[0431] This modification utilises the water space of the base reservoir between the floats of the floating group of standard modules to increase the volume of the gas space of the floats of the floating group of standard modules, thereby increasing the buoyancy of the float part of the floating group of standard modules.

[0432] The side walls of the floats will be protected against the effects of water in the main reservoir, where salt water in particular has a particularly strong corrosive effect.

[0433] It is also advantageous to enclose the space between the floats, or between their segments, at the level of their upper decks.

[0434] This single-piece or multi-piece space, i.e. segments, between the floats can then be filled with the same internal gas overpressure, preferably inert, as the space inside the floats or segments, thereby equalising the external and internal pressures on the side walls of the floats or segments and also on the bottoms of the floats.

[0435] The bottoms of the floats and the vertical walls of the floats in the perimeter modules can advantageously be made of corrosion-resistant material, while the walls of the floats in conventional modules in the interior of the floating group of conventional modules can be made of a less expensive material, which reduces the price of the floating group of conventional modules.

[0436] In a floating module array in a stationary module array, it is advantageous to create a continuous bottom for the module reservoirs by closing the space between the module reservoirs at the level of the lower bottoms and then using this space to fill with water.

[0437] It is also advantageous to create a continuous bottom for the module reservoirs by closing the space between the module reservoirs at the level of the upper bottoms. The space above the water level can then also be filled with a protective atmosphere in the same way as inside the module reservoirs.

[0438] It is advantageous to equip these spaces between the floats and module reservoirs with ventilation pipes and to secure them in the same way as the floats and module reservoirs themselves.

[0439] Using the space between the floats and between the module reservoirs for water pumping significantly increases the efficiency of the use of the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil or the space of the base reservoir on the surface of the module array and thus its capacity for accumulating potential energy without compromising the stability of the module array.

[0440] When using a structure of conventional modules connected to each other by vertical reinforcements, it is necessary to reinforce the module reservoirs with internal vertical reinforcements and to strengthen the vertical reinforcements between the peripheral module reservoirs so that they can withstand the unilateral load from the internal hydrostatic overpressure of the water.

[0441] Furthermore, individual standard modules or gaps between them cannot be operated differently from other standard modules, e.g. in the event of a fault in one of the standard modules, as this would cause unacceptable mechanical stress in the walls of the standard modules and in the vertical reinforcements with different hydrostatic water overpressure loads.

[0442] Module reservoirs or standard modules preferably have a spacing equal to their diameter and are preferably connected directly to each other by their walls. The connection is preferably made using connecting components, preferably screws or rivets. The connection is preferably made using spot or line welds.

[0443] Compared to the arrangement of module reservoirs or conventional modules with a spacing greater than their diameter, the advantage here is better use of the system space for pumping purposes, better utilisation of the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil or the space of the base reservoir on the surface of the pumped storage power plant in favour of its capacity, without compromising the stability of the group of module reservoirs or conventional modules or their system.

[0444] This type of construction reduces the specific material costs compared to the construction of conventional modules with vertical stiffeners and can further simplify the production of parts and assembly.

[0445] However, access to the joints is only possible from the interior of the standard modules. The inner surface of the walls of the standard modules can be inspected over the entire area, while the outer surface of the walls of the standard modules can only be inspected in part, as the walls of the standard modules are close together in the area of the joints and access to the space between the standard modules is rather difficult.

[0446] The space between standard modules can only be used for filling with water and pumping if the interior is reinforced with vertical stiffeners, as in standard modules connected by external vertical stiffeners.

[0447] It is advantageous to assemble a group of standard modules of a pumped storage power plant from module reservoirs or from standard modules, the spacing of which is less than their diameter, which means that they are connected by their walls in such a way that they overlap each other in plan, thus creating an interconnection, preferably in a triangle, without the need for external or internal vertical reinforcements or other types of reinforcement of the vertical joints between the standard modules.

[0448] All the space of the group of standard modules is used here for pumping purposes, fully utilisingthe load-bearing capacity of the subsoil or the space of the base reservoir on the surface of the pumped storage power plant to the benefit of its capacity, without impairing the stability of the group of standard modules or the module array.

[0449] This type of construction allows for a reduction in specific material costs compared to the construction of standard modules connected by vertical reinforcements and can further simplify the production of parts and the assembly of the module array.

[0450] Depending on the ratio of the diameter and spacing of the standard modules, the connection of the standard modules has different shapes and different advantages and disadvantages.

[0451] If the walls of standard modules intersect at a single point, the welds of the standard modules are concentrated at this single point, which is disadvantageous for ensuring the quality of the welds.

[0452] To reduce the heat load on the welded area and improve the quality of the welds, it is advantageous to choose the spacing of standard modules so that only two walls of standard modules intersect at one point. This can be achieved by increasing or decreasing the spacing of standard modules.

[0453] When the spacing of the standard modules is increased, the overlap of the walls is reduced and the space between them is more difficult to access for checking the inner walls of the standard modules, the rigidity of the group of standard modules is lower, but the use of standard module material per unit area of the group of standard modules is more advantageous.

[0454] When the spacing of standard modules is reduced, the overlap of the walls increases and the space between them is more accessible for checking the inner walls of standard modules, the rigidity of the group of standard modules is greater, but the use of standard module material per area of the group of standard modules is less advantageous.

[0455] It is possible to operate individual standard modules or shut them down in the event of a fault independently of the other standard modules without causing dangerous loads in the walls of the other standard modules due to different lateral hydrostatic water pressure.

[0456] It is advantageous for each space created by connecting standard modules to be connected by a closable branch to the transfer pipe and, consequently, to the transfer unit. In addition to connecting the internal space of the reservoir, it is necessary to create three additional connections for the spaces created by connecting standard modules. This significantly increases the total number of branches.

[0457] The spaces between the module reservoirs created by connecting standard modules should be connected to the spaces inside the module reservoirs, preferably using internal flow openings or external pipes. These connected spaces can then be connected to the transfer pipe and, in turn, to the transfer unit via a single branch.

[0458] The spaces between module reservoirs created by connecting standard modules can be connected to the spaces inside the module reservoirs in various ways.

[0459] However, due to the circular shape of the module reservoirs, it is necessary to follow a specific procedure for individual emptying or filling of the reservoirs, e.g. due to a fault, it is necessary to follow a procedure for shutting down or filling adjacent reservoirs so that all module reservoirs are only loaded by internal overpressure and so that the arched walls of the module reservoirs are not loaded by external overpressure.

[0460] The route for conducting water or gas can be advantageously formed by a pipe.

[0461] Pipes for conducting water are water pipes.

[0462] The gas conduit or gas pipe can also be referred to as an air conduit or air pipe if the gas is compressed air, or as a venting conduit or venting pipe if it connects the air space of the module reservoir freely to the atmosphere or freely between module reservoirs.

[0463] The water or gas conduit can be advantageously formed by the walls of the module reservoir.

[0464] The path for conducting water is then advantageously formed so that the floating module reservoir has no bottom and is submerged by the walls below the water level in the base reservoir, while the path for conducting air is advantageously formed so that the floating module reservoir has no ceiling and is open by the walls to the atmosphere or to the gas space above the water level in the base reservoir.

[0465] The pumped storage power plant according to the invention accumulates potential energy primarily in the reservoirs and in the connected energy transfer paths. For this purpose in particular, each energy transfer path according to the invention is closable, i.e. it comprises at least one closure which enables the accumulation of potential energy by blocking the flow of fluid between the reservoirs.

[0466] The water or gas path advantageously comprises a shut-off and / or control valve as a shut-off device,advantageously a valve, and, in the case of single-action energy transfer, advantageously a check valve or non-retum valve.

[0467] It is advantageous to combine different paths and corresponding closures to accumulate potential energy. The same or a different closure or a different path than that used for energy accumulation can be used to release the accumulated energy.

[0468] The shut-off device also serves to regulate or operatively stop the flow of the pumped fluid during normal operation or in the event of a pump failure, as well as due to unusual situations in the energy network or to prevent unwanted flow of the pumped fluid (in particular, leakage of fluid from the upper reservoir to the lower reservoir). Depending on operational safety requirements, these shut-off devices can be duplicated, either in parallel or in series.

[0469] The lower bottoms of the floats or segments are advantageously provided with openings with shutoff devices (pressure relief valves) to allow the internal space of the floats to be flooded to level the position of the floating group of standard modules, e.g. during installation of standard modules, during repairs or when troubleshooting the floating group of standard modules.

[0470] In a pumped storage power plant, the spaces of reservoirs with different energy potentials are connected by energy transfer paths.

[0471] A water or gas conduit becomes an energy transfer conduit when it is connected to an energy unit and is closable. A water path for energy transfer is connected to a water or pumped energy unit, and a gas path for energy transfer is connected to a gas energy unit.

[0472] In a pumped storage power plant, the energy transfer route is mainly the pumped pipeline.

[0473] Since, in the pumped storage power plant according to the invention, the lower reservoir and the upper reservoir can be arranged on a slope of a mountain massif at an angle above each other, the transfer pipe connecting them has an inclined and a horizontal section.

[0474] Module reservoirs in modular systems are advantageously connected to each other by means of a horizontal transfer pipe.

[0475] In such a case, only one shut-off valve in the inclined transfer pipe between the lower and upper reservoirs is sufficient.

[0476] It is advantageous to connect a pipe branch to the bottom of each module reservoir to the horizontal section of the transfer pipe, i.e. to the transfer manifold, which forms a pipe network under the module reservoirs.

[0477] It is advantageous to connect the module reservoirs in a group of adjacent standard modules in this way. A group of adjacent standard modules has one common inclined transfer pipe and transfer unit. Here, the pipe branch on each module reservoir must be equipped with a shut-off valve so that the flow and water level in each module reservoir can be reliably regulated.

[0478] It is advantageous to connect all module reservoirs of standard modules of the same height to the collection pipe, with the horizontal collection pipe network connected to the corresponding vertical transfer pipe, which is preferably arranged around the perimeter of the pumped storage power plant.

[0479] Here, too, the pipe branch for each module reservoir must be equipped with a shut-off valve so that the flow and water level in each module reservoir can be reliably regulated.

[0480] The inclined transfer pipe can be conveniently arranged at each perimeter module.

[0481] The horizontal and / or inclined transfer pipes are advantageously made of several parallel runs to reduce the diameter, wall thickness and weight of the pipes, which increases hydraulic losses but facilitates their manufacture, transport, installation and maintenance.

[0482] Each inclined transfer pipe arranged around the perimeter of the module array is preferably connected to a separate power unit.

[0483] The transfer unit can be shared by a group of transfer pipes, which increases the size and power of the power units but reduces their number. Efficiency can be better achieved with a larger transfer unit.

[0484] Inclined transfer pipes may have a wall thickness graded along their height according to the static and dynamic water pressure.

[0485] The lower parts of the partitions between the internal spaces of the reservoir advantageously comprise flow openings.

[0486] In a group of standard modules, the walls of the module reservoirs between the standard modules advantageously comprise flow openings, which is particularly advantageous for module reservoirs of the same height.

[0487] When filled with water, the internal spaces of each module reservoir thus form connected vessels, and a sloping transfer pipe connected to the side of the group of standard modules is sufficient for transfer; a collection pipe does not need to be installed.

[0488] The flow openings are accessible for repairs, preferably after the other module reservoirs have been emptied.

[0489] It is advantageous to install shut-off valves in the flow openings, preferably control shut-off valves, and preferably shut-off valves that can be remotely controlled. The shut-off valves have control elements arranged in the space below the module reservoirs so that they are accessible at any time. This is advantageous in the event of a module reservoir failure, as it can be shut down without emptying the other module reservoirs.

[0490] Due to the resistance of the pumped fluid when flowing between the internal spaces, these spaces will not be filled to the same height at the same time and, as a result of uneven loading, especially hydrostatic pressure, increased mechanical stress will occur in the walls between these spaces.

[0491] Resistance in the flow openings and thus the uneven filling of the module reservoirs increase with increasing water flow velocity.

[0492] Uneven filling or emptying of module reservoirs can be reduced or eliminated by throttling the air flow in the vent pipe above the water level in the module reservoirs, thereby increasing the overall overpressure in the module reservoirs. For module reservoirs that are closer to the pump, throttling is more necessary. For larger groups of standard modules with flow openings, the unevenness will probably be higher and the need for throttling the air flow will therefore also be higher.

[0493] For this purpose, it will probably be advantageous to equip the pumping station with a device, preferably control valves, to regulate the air overpressure above the water level in the individual module reservoirs.

[0494] However, to accommodate the increased hydrostatic water pressure and air overpressure, the module reservoirs must be significantly larger, which increases the cost of the module reservoirs.

[0495] In a group of standard modules with flow openings between the module reservoirs, a damaged module reservoir in a specific standard module can be repaired by first emptying all module reservoirs in the group of standard modules, e.g. by pumping water from the lower group of standard modules to the upper group of standard modules, then the repairers enter the damaged module reservoir, or even the adjacent module reservoirs, close the flow openings with sealing covers, and then repair the damaged module reservoir. The module reservoirs in the other standard modules in the standard module group can be used to pump water during the repair. After repair, the shut-off covers may only be removed after the surrounding full module reservoirs have been emptied. Only then can the repaired module reservoir be used again.

[0496] In a group of standard modules with shut-off valves in the flow openings between the module reservoirs, the damaged module reservoir in a specific standard module can be repaired by closing the shutoff valves in the damaged module reservoir and, if necessary, in the adjacent module reservoirs, and then repairing the damaged module reservoir. The module reservoirs in the other standard modules can be used to pump water during the repair. After the repair, the closures are opened, and the repaired module reservoir can be used again.

[0497] In designs where the power units are arranged around the perimeter of the module array, it may be advantageous to route a horizontal transfer pipe branch from each module reservoir to the perimeter of the module array to the area of the inclined transfer pipe and to place the shut-off valve for the branch there. It is also advantageous to route the measuring instruments from the individual module reservoirs to this space. Although this increases losses due to water flow in the transfer pipe, the spaces with shut-off valves on the transfer pipe at levels below and above the reservoirs can be more easily air-conditioned to create favourable conditions for operating and maintenance personnel and for operation, thereby increasing the reliability of the shut-off valves and measuring instruments.

[0498] It is advantageous to route the horizontal and inclined transfer pipes from each module reservoir, including shut-off valves and measuring instruments, to the transfer unit. These devices are centralised in one air-conditioned location, which greatly simplifies their operation and maintenance. The operation of the module reservoirs is simplified by water seals, and the need for air pressure regulation in the module reservoirs is reduced or eliminated. This ensures the reliability and safety of the pumped storage power plant even at elevated temperatures of the pumped water.

[0499] The energy transfer piping in the pumped storage power plant is advantageously designed so that the ends of the piping are immersed in the pumped fluid in both the lower and upper reservoirs, the pipes connect the lower reservoir and upper reservoir comprising the pumped fluid without interrupting the fluid column with a space comprising another fluid (i.e. immediately, directly, continuously) so that the fluid flow is continuous.

[0500] This minimises electricity consumption and maximises electricity production when overcoming the pumping difference between the fluid in the lower reservoir and the upper reservoir.

[0501] For example, if the pumped fluid is water, then when the water is pumped by the pump, the discharge pipe connects the water spaces of the lower reservoir and the upper reservoir continuously, i.e. without interrupting the water column with air space . Similarly, when water is transferred through a turbine, the discharge pipe is routed continuously from below the water level in the upper reservoir to below the water level in the lower reservoir, i.e. without interruption by an air space.

[0502] Compensating chambers are advantageously arranged in the transfer pipe to dampen hydraulic shocks caused by changes in water flow velocity during regulation or shutdown of the transfer unit.

[0503] Since the floating module array can sway on the water surface in the base reservoir, the water pipe of the floating module array is advantageously connected to structures on the shore of the base reservoir by means of a flexible pipe.

[0504] Modules of different heights can be advantageously arranged so that their upper edges are aligned at the same level.

[0505] A large multi-purpose work platform can then be created on the standard modules.

[0506] This simplifies access to all standard modules and facilitates assembly and maintenance work on the module array.

[0507] However, it must be taken into account that any additional load on the module array must respect the load-bearing capacity of the bases or floats and may therefore partially limit the storage capacity of the pumped storage power plant.

[0508] If the module reservoirs of the upper module array are connected by a common collection pipe, similar to the module reservoirs of the lower module array, then the reservoirs with the greatest height, whose bottom is therefore arranged lowest and which are arranged, in terms of horizontal arrangement, closest to the centre of gravity of the floating module array, are filled first and emptied last during pumping, which helps to stabilise the module array against tilting. However, this method of filling the module reservoirs will cause shear stress between the normal modules with different degrees of filling of the module reservoirs.

[0509] In order to keep the upper edges of the upper module reservoirs aligned at the same level and to prevent shear stress between the connected standard modules, it is advisable to fill the module reservoirs simultaneously and proportionally in all standard modules or groups of standard modules during pumping, even in those that are not structurally connected to each other.

[0510] If the module reservoirs in all separate standard modules or groups of standard modules are not filled simultaneously and proportionally, these standard modules or groups of standard modules will not be loaded proportionally to their load-bearing capacity, their total height will differ during pumping, and shear stress may occur between the connected standard modules. Their total heights will be equalised when the filling of all module reservoirs is equalised so that it is proportional, or when the filling is completely finished.

[0511] The pumped storage power plant according to the invention comprises a water transfer unit, advantageously and / or a gas transfer unit, in which electrical energy is consumed to accumulate potential energy and electrical energy is generated from the consumed potential energy.

[0512] The output of the transfer unit is advantageously adjustable. The pumped storage power plant according to the invention may advantageously comprise multiple power units of the same or different output for better control and for grading the output of energy storage or production or even for increasing the reliability of operation.

[0513] If energy is accumulated in the pumped storage power plant during changes in pressure or fluid flow during the pumping cycle, the demands on the regulation of the transfer unit increase and its efficiency decreases.

[0514] A water transfer unit is used when the pumped fluid is water. It preferably comprises a pump, a water pump for water, for converting electrical energy into the potential energy of water, and a water turbinefor converting the potential energy of water into electrical energy. The transfer of water between reservoirs by means of a water energy unit is carried out via a water transfer pipe. The turbine and pump can be connected in parallel to a common water pipe or they can be connected separately, i.e. the turbine to the inlet pipe and the pump to the discharge pipe. The transfer unit may comprise a reversible turbine that can operate in both turbine and pump mode.

[0515] The turbine can be connected to a generator, the pump can be connected to a motor, and the reversible turbine can be connected to a motor generator.

[0516] In order to maximise the use of the head, it is advantageous to use a positive pressure turbine. A Francis or Deriaz turbine, which can also be operated in reverse as a pump, is advantageous.

[0517] Conventional equal-pressure turbines are not suitable for use in the pumped storage power plant according to the invention because they do not allow the entire head between the upper and lower reservoirs to be utilised, as the water level in the lower reservoirs can rise high, tens of metres, above the water level in the turbine impeller area. The impeller of a constant-pressure turbine must be arranged above the lower water level so that it does not get flooded.

[0518] However, it is advantageous to use equal-pressure turbines, such as Pelton or Banki turbines, modified for overpressure on the outlet side so that the air space of the impeller is filled with compressed air, preferably using a compressor, to a pressure corresponding to the water pressure in the lower reservoir. The turbine shell must be reinforced to withstand the increased internal overpressure.

[0519] The water will flow from the impeller space into the lower reservoir even if the water level in the lower reservoir rises above the water level in the impeller space. Although the amount of air consumed for this purpose will be negligible, it is advantageous to ensure its closed circulation and reduce the energy consumption for its circulation. Compressed air dissolves relatively well in the pumped water, so it is advantageous to take the air for fdling the impeller chamber from the space above the water level in the reservoirs. The water that flows from the pressure chamber in the turbine into the lower reservoir carries dissolved compressed air with it. The pressure of the pumped water towards its level in the lower reservoir decreases and the dissolved air escapes from the water back into the air space above the water level in the lower reservoir.

[0520] When pumping water from the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir while the Pelton turbine is stopped, the air pressure in the turbine impeller chamber must be gradually reduced so that it does not enter the lower reservoir, preferably by passing the compressed air through a compressor, which may be of a reversible design, or through an air motor into a vent pipe to the reservoirs, so that the energy of the compressed air is recovered into the electrical network.

[0521] It is also advantageous to use a crossflow positive pressure turbine, preferably in a reversible design for both turbine and pumping modes. This turbine can alternatively operate in turbine mode only, with a pump being used for pumping mode. Another option is to use one separate crossflow positive pressure turbine for turbine mode and a second separate crossflow positive pressure turbine for pumping mode.

[0522] The use of a crossflow pressure turbine is particularly advantageous due to its compactness and simplicity of design. A crossflow pressure turbine has a flatter efficiency characteristic compared to a Francis or Kaplan turbine. This makes it advantageous for more efficient power control over a wider range. This turbine can be used advantageously for various flow and head ratios corresponding to the normal application parameters of Francis, Kaplan and Pelton turbines.

[0523] A gas transfer unit is used when the fluid being transferred is gas. It advantageously comprises a gas compressor, fan or vacuum pump, an air compressor for air, a fan or vacuum pump for converting electrical energy into gas pressure energy, and also comprises a gas engine, such as a gas turbine, for air, an air turbine for converting gas pressure energy into electrical energy, or a reversible gas turbine that can operate in both turbine and compressor mode. Gas is transferred between module reservoirs by a gas pipeline . Parallel or serial connection to the gas pipeline can be made in the same way as for a water transfer unit.

[0524] The gas transfer unit can be conveniently arranged in the upper part of the floating module array above the water level, so that it is not so exposed to the possible aggressive effects of water and is more easily accessible for maintenance.

[0525] The module array in the pumping station can also be used to store gas, in gaseous or liquid form, in a gas module reservoir.

[0526] This makes better use of the land on which the module array is built and the large gas space inconventional modules, especially in floats or intermediate sections.

[0527] However, increased loads must be taken into account and the relevant parts of the standard modules must be dimensioned accordingly, which will be at the expense of the capacity of the pumped storage power plant given the load-bearing capacity of the foundation (i.e. the subsoil or usable depth).

[0528] A float or support equipped with a bottom and top can be advantageously used as a gas module reservoir. A gas module reservoir can be advantageously designed as a separate pressure vessel arranged in the float space or in the support space. A gas module reservoir, especially for storing gas in a liquid state, is advantageously provided with thermal insulation.

[0529] The gas module reservoir is filled and emptied by means of a gas transfer unit and a pressurised gas pipeline connected to the gas module reservoir.

[0530] The pumping station is also advantageously used to accumulate the pressure energy of the gas by pumping the gas, advantageously between the low-pressure gas space and the high-pressure gas module reservoir, using a gas transfer unit.

[0531] The pumped storage power plant advantageously comprises a high-pressure modular gas reservoir, which is used to store compressed gas.

[0532] The transfer power plant advantageously comprises a low-pressure gas module reservoir, which serves as a low-pressure gas space for storing expanded gas.

[0533] The support preferably comprises a low-pressure gas module reservoir and / or a high-pressure gas module reservoir.

[0534] The lower module reservoir and / or upper module reservoir is advantageously a low-pressure gas module reservoir or a high-pressure gas module reservoir.

[0535] The low-pressure gas space is preferably the surrounding atmosphere.

[0536] The pumped storage power plant advantageously comprises a gas transfer unit which is

[0537] on one side, preferably by means of a gas pipe, connected to a low-pressure gas module reservoir or to the atmosphere

[0538] and on the other side connected by a pressurised gas pipe to a high-pressure gas module reservoir.

[0539] The gas transfer unit may be internal and / or external. An external gas transfer unit is not part of the pumped storage power plant and may be designed as an independent stationary or mobile, e.g. floating, device.

[0540] Gas transfer is preferably carried out between the lower module reservoir and the upper module reservoir.

[0541] Air transfer is preferably carried out between the atmosphere and the lower module reservoir and / or the upper module reservoir.

[0542] It is advantageous to perform water pumping and gas pumping simultaneously and / or separately, independently.

[0543] To generate air pressure energy, i.e. increasing or decreasing the air pressure in one module reservoir above or below atmospheric pressure or the pressure in the second module reservoir, can be advantageously achieved by a compressor or a vacuum pump with a closed water path or by forcing water into or out of the pressurised module reservoir by means of a pump or a reverse turbine.

[0544] The compression of gas in the module reservoir can advantageously be carried out by pumping water, which changes the compression of the gas in the module reservoir.

[0545] The accumulation of the pressure energy of the gas is part of an energy cycle that comprises polytropic compression and expansion of the gas, which are thermodynamic changes that are irreversible, mainly due to the predominant transfer of heat from the gas to its surroundings. Heat losses reduce the efficiency of energy accumulation.

[0546] To improve the thermodynamic efficiency of the compression cycle, it is advantageous to recover the compression heat, in other words, to accumulate the compression heat of the compressed gas and use it during expansion or gas withdrawal, with the polytropic changes then approaching adiabatic changes. The pumped storage power plant according to the invention may advantageously comprise a device for recovering compression heat. Compression heat is also accumulated in the pumped water, which is particularly advantageous when water is pumped between module reservoirs in a closed cycle. Heat losses accumulated in fluids are also reduced by insulating the module reservoirs and pipes.

[0547] When accumulating the pressure energy of gas in a module reservoir with an open water level, another disadvantage is that the gas from the space above the water level is gradually absorbed into thewater in proportion to the overpressure and is carried away by the pumped water, thereby reducing its density as its volume increases. At higher pressures, the working cycle of the pumped storage power plant can be disrupted to such an extent that pumping stops after a series of cycles. As the temperature rises, the water absorbs less compressed gas.

[0548] In order to prevent a reduction in the volume efficiency of the pumping cycle due to a reduction in the volume of gas in the closed pressure module reservoir, for example by cooling or absorption in water or loss through leaks, the repumping power plant according to the invention advantageously comprises a device for replenishing gas from an external source, which is advantageously formed by a compressor or advantageously by a pressure vessel with compressed gas and a closable gas pipe. However, replenishing gas also reduces the efficiency of the energy cycle.

[0549] The reservoir may advantageously comprise a separate space for compressed gas, which therefore has no direct overpressure contact with the water level in the module reservoir and cannot dissolve in the water.

[0550] It is advantageous for the separate space for compressed gas in the pressure module reservoir to be created by a membrane, preferably in the form of a gas bag, so that the spaces for water and gas are completely separated.

[0551] In the pressure module reservoir, a separate space for compressed gas can be advantageously created by an auxiliary pressure vessel comprising an auxiliary gas transfer unit. During the filling of the pressure module reservoir with water, the gas from this pressure module reservoir is forced by an auxiliary compressor into the auxiliary pressure vessel and, when the water is drained from the pressure module reservoir, the compressed gas from the auxiliary pressure vessel is discharged through an auxiliary gas turbine.

[0552] The pumped storage power plant advantageously comprises an engine room in which the transfer unit is arranged.

[0553] The pump-turbine unit is advantageously arranged in a module array.

[0554] The pump-turbine unit is advantageously mounted on the outside of the floating module array so that it is more accessible for maintenance.

[0555] The pump-turbine unit may advantageously be arranged outside the module array.

[0556] In a pumped storage power plant with a floating module array, the pump unit is advantageously arranged in a pontoon-shaped power module equipped with a float or in another floating device.

[0557] The pump unit is preferably connected to the module array by means of a sliding or articulated device, with the pump pipe in this section being preferably movable, i.e. flexible, articulated or telescopic design, which allows compensation for mutual movements between the power unit and the module array when rocking on the water surface in the base reservoir. The transfer pipe in this part is advantageously made of plastic and is advantageously reinforced. The movable transfer pipe is preferably completely submerged in the water in the base reservoir, so that it theoretically only bears its own weight.

[0558] The fact that the transfer unit remains at the level of the lower reservoir makes it easier to access for installation and maintenance. The disadvantage is longer and more complex energy transfer paths, which is associated with energy losses and possibly a shorter service life of the flexible pipe.

[0559] It is advantageous to arrange the machine rooms with the energy unit and vertical transfer pipes in energy modules connected around the perimeter of the floating module array to the standard modules with module reservoirs, with the energy module preferably equipped with a float, so that their balancing and accessibility of energy units for installation and maintenance can be more easily solved.

[0560] The transfer unit may advantageously be firmly connected to the base reservoir in which the floating module array is arranged, advantageously arranged on a structure attached to the bottom of the base reservoir, advantageously in a hollow tube, or advantageously arranged on the shore of the base reservoir.

[0561] In a stationary module array, the transfer unit does not have to be connected to the module array, but the transfer pipe is advantageously of a flexible, articulated or telescopic design, which allows compensation for any, in particular thermal, expansion between the power unit and the module array.

[0562] By locating the transfer unit outside the module array, it is generally easier to access for installation, operation and maintenance, and its size and thus its efficiency can be better optimised. Increasing the power of the energy equipment could reduce their number, taking into account the requirements for electrical network regulation.

[0563] By placing the transfer pump unit in the machine room outside the module array, noise insulationcan be achieved more effectively than in a sheet metal module array.

[0564] Further noise reduction is possible by partially or fully placing the transfer unit below ground level.

[0565] The pumped storage power plant, in particular the transfer unit, also comprises other usual accessories, such as device for adjusting electrical energy parameters, e.g. voltage and current, and for its transmission to or from the place of consumption, and device for damping hydraulic, mechanical or electromagnetic shocks and vibrations. A suction basket or screen in the water supply pipe or a suction fdter in the air supply pipe to the transfer unit is also expected.

[0566] The engine room or just the transfer unit of a pumping power plant according to the invention, e.g. a water transfer unit, may be advantageously exposed directly to the water environment, which is common for submersible pumps or turbines, or may be advantageously arranged in a pressure shell fdled with air or another, preferably inert, gas or liquid, preferably an inert liquid, so that they are protected from the outside against overpressure and other adverse, in particular corrosive, effects of the water environment. It is advantageous for the liquid or gas filling of the pressure shell to be compressed so that the external hydrostatic pressure on the machine body is at least partially equalised by this filling with the internal hydrostatic pressure, thereby reducing the load on the machine and the pressure shell.

[0567] The transfer of electrical energy between the power plant on a floating module array and electrical equipment on the shore of the base reservoir can be conveniently solved by a movable cable or, preferably, by a trolley.

[0568] The pumped storage power plant according to the invention advantageously comprises a device for determining the position of the floating module array on the water surface in the base reservoir, e.g. anchor ropes or tie rods, which are fixed to the shore of the base reservoir and allow the necessary expansion to prevent overloading of parts of the floating module array and the anchoring elements due to uneven loading, e.g. as a result of strong winds while the floating module array is swaying.

[0569] The pumped storage power plant according to the invention, especially in the floating module array design, advantageously comprises a guide device for guiding the floating module array along a predetermined trajectory, especially in the vertical direction, in the space of the base reservoir. The guide device ensures smooth guidance of the floating module array, depending on its design, advantageously against deflection, swaying and overturning caused, for example, by its own inertia, waves, water currents or wind, and is advantageously designed as a sliding and / or rolling guide, and / or articulated device, in a large base reservoir, advantageously as a guide frame or parallelogram, fixed, for example, to the bottom of the base reservoir.

[0570] The perfection of the guidance of the floating module array also depends on the number of degrees of freedom of the guidance device. The guidance device is advantageously formed by a rope guide, wherein the guide ropes are advantageously fixed to the bottom of the base reservoir and to floats on the surface of the base reservoir, wherein the floats are advantageously connected to each other and advantageously horizontally stabilised. The cable anchored to the bottom of the base reservoir and tensioned by the buoyancy of the float does not allow the floating module array to be guided precisely with one degree of freedom, but as it is a self-centring device, it can come very close to this degree.

[0571] A floating module array arranged in a very large base reservoir and at a greater distance from its shore can be equipped with a device, preferably ship engines, to maintain its position in the base reservoir and / or to move it, e.g. to a dock for repair.

[0572] The floating module array is advantageously secured on the surface of the base reservoir by a guide frame that surrounds the floating module array along its entire perimeter. Advantageously, each floating group of standard modules is secured by a guide frame that surrounds the floating group of standard modules along its entire perimeter.

[0573] The guide frame advantageously has a floating part and an anchoring part, which are hinged together. The anchoring part is advantageously hinged to the bases on the shore of the base reservoir.

[0574] The guide frames for guiding the floating groups of standard modules are advantageously hinged together.

[0575] The guide frame primarily serves to stabilise the floating group of standard modules or the floating module array against horizontal movement on the surface of the water in the base reservoir, allows vertical movement and free rocking of the floating group of standard modules or floating module array, and is anchored to the shore or bottom of the base reservoir so as to enable the proper functioning of the floating group of standard modules or floating module array within the permissible water level changes in the basereservoir.

[0576] The guide frame is advantageously equipped with a spring-loaded wheel guide and a fixed guide to stabilise the floating group of standard modules or the floating module array against horizontal movement on the water surface in the base reservoir and to guide the floating group of standard modules or the floating module array during vertical movement.

[0577] The pumped storage power plant advantageously comprises a locking device, advantageously a stop, advantageously spring-loaded. The locking device may be advantageously automatic, advantageously remotely controllable.

[0578] This locking device serves to define the position of the floating module array at a specified location in the base reservoir, preferably secures the position of the floating module array within the limits required by the operating cycle, e.g. in the extreme position, and preferably prevents the floating module array from touching the bottom of the base reservoir and thus from being damaged.

[0579] The locking device can advantageously serve to stabilise the height position of the floating module array in the base reservoir, advantageously in the lower or upper operating position, which allows further accumulation of potential fluid energy by pumping it between the module reservoirs, thereby extending the operating modes to increase the capacity of the pumped storage power plant.

[0580] The locking stops of the stabilised module array transfer the full buoyancy of the empty module array or, conversely, the full weight of the filled stabilised module array, which means a considerable load on both the construction of these stops and the construction of the stabilised module array.

[0581] The floating module array has the advantage of a hydrodynamic shape and smooth surface, which reduces the resistance to movement of the floating module array in water and thus increases the efficiency of energy storage and production.

[0582] However, there are situations where the low hydrodynamic resistance of the floating module array is a disadvantage. Therefore, the floating module array advantageously comprises a hydrodynamic motion damper, a stabiliser whose purpose is to increase the hydrodynamic resistance and thus slow down the movement of the floating module array, in particular to dampen its rocking on the water surface . The damper is advantageously attached to the bottom of the floating module array so that it remains as much as possible below the water surface when the floating module array rocks, even if the floating module array or part thereof rises to the upper operating position. The damper has a shape that provides the greatest possible hydrodynamic resistance, preferably in at least one direction of movement, for example at the end of the operating stroke of the floating reservoir to its extreme operating position, preferably in both directions of the given direction of movement, for example to limit the height rocking of the floating module array. The damper preferably has the shape of a flat or curved plate, preferably oriented perpendicular or obliquely to the direction of movement, or the shape of an open cavity, preferably in the shape of a hollow hemisphere oriented with the cavity preferably against the direction of movement. The damper is preferably fixed in such a way that it is out of reach of the turbulent water flow created by the floating module array itself, preferably on the side of the floating module array. The floating module array is preferably equipped with at least one damper for each kinematic degree of freedom, preferably multiple dampers. The floating module array preferably has dampers positioned symmetrically to at least one axis of movement. The damper is preferably extendable and / or tiltable and / or removable and / or remotely controllable. For example, a floating module array that has two degrees of freedom, i.e. it can swing vertically and tilt sideways in one vertical plane, should be equipped with two dampers, i.e. one for swinging and one for tilting.

[0583] The pumped storage power plant may advantageously be equipped with an additional auxiliary power unit which can be used to finely regulate the submergence of the floating module array and / or dampen its rocking on the water surface in the base reservoir after the main pump unit has been shut down, e.g. to facilitate the loading and unloading of transported material or when people are entering or exiting.

[0584] The module array advantageously comprises at least one access route for walking by operating and maintenance personnel and for related material transport, e.g. between the bank of the base reservoir and the floating module array, as well as for other purposes.

[0585] The access route is advantageously provided on the anchoring part and / or on the floating part of the guide frame.

[0586] The access path advantageously comprises a connecting bridge.

[0587] The pumped storage power plant according to the invention is advantageously equipped with a working platform, which is advantageously formed on the guide frame.

[0588] The access path is advantageously part of the working platform.

[0589] The working platform has advantageously multiple purposes: as an access route for operating and maintenance personnel, as a transport route for transporting materials using transport equipment during maintenance and repairs, especially of energy equipment, as an assembly platform during maintenance and assembly of floating reservoirs, especially energy equipment, for carrying and routing cables to energy equipment, control and regulation fittings, measuring and safety devices and equipment), for carrying auxiliary electrical equipment and distribution systems (outdoor and indoor assembly device for lifting loads and transporting persons, lighting, connections for powering electrical tools and instruments, defrosting in winter), for carrying inert gas distribution systems for filling standard modules.

[0590] The work platform is advantageously equipped with: guardrails with edges at floor level to prevent people and objects from falling from the guide frame into the water, rails for rail transport of loads and materials, winches for pulling rail vehicles along the rails,- lighting, safety equipment and means for rescuing persons who fall from the guide frame into the water (lifeboats and belts), anchoring, handling and access device for transferring materials and persons between the guide frame and watercraft.

[0591] The width of the working platform is preferably sufficient for two tracks side by side for independent transport on each track.

[0592] Transportation will preferably be provided for the smooth movement of rail vehicles from two locations on the shore to the working platform and around its entire perimeter with several switches to allow crossing between tracks if necessary.

[0593] The tracks are advantageously embedded in the floor.

[0594] The working platform should also allow the movement of wheeled vehicles with tyres.

[0595] The floating module array, which does not move vertically, preferably comprises a work platform firmly connected to the perimeter of the floating module array, preferably to the perimeter of the floating groups of standard modules.

[0596] This work platform is preferably arranged at a height so that it extends above the water level in the base reservoir even when rocking in strong winds and is preferably arranged at the level of the power units.

[0597] This working platform is advantageously connected by connecting bridges to the shore of the base reservoir.

[0598] The connecting bridge is advantageously articulated to the floating module array and slidably connected to the shore of the base reservoir.

[0599] The pumped storage power plant advantageously comprises access and transport routes, advantageously work platforms, for horizontal transport of people and materials for assembly, operation and maintenance to the transfer unit, to the inclined and collecting pipes.

[0600] Horizontal working platforms are advantageously provided below and above the module reservoirs.

[0601] The pumped storage power plant advantageously comprises access and transport routes for vertical transport of people and materials for assembly, operation and maintenance of the transfer unit, to the inclined and collecting pipes and to the working platforms.

[0602] Rope or rack and pinion transport equipment is preferably used for vertical transport.

[0603] Rope transport equipment can advantageously be driven by a friction disc or drum drive.

[0604] Vertical transport device for persons and loads is preferably installed inside and / or outside the perimeter energy modules, preferably in the form of a suspended or climbing assembly platform.

[0605] For inspection, cleaning and repair of modules from the inside and outside, it is advantageous to provide closable inspection openings in the upper or lower bottoms, or in the side walls or horizontal reinforcement flanges or in the platforms of module reservoirs, supports and floats, which allow access for workers and the use of necessary work equipment and instruments.

[0606] To facilitate work inside the modules, it is advisable to fit these inspection openings with handles for anchoring portable inspection, cleaning, repair and transport equipment.

[0607] Since the module array can generally cover a large area and extend high above the surrounding terrain, solar panels and / or small wind turbine rotors can be advantageously arranged on the upper platform or on the vertical perimeter walls. The advantage here is that the average output of both solar and wind power plants increases with the height of the module array, offering more unobstructed sunlight and faster wind.

[0608] Underneath the floating module array, propeller water turbines can be installed on the bottom of the floating module array and / or on the bottom of the base reservoir to utilise the alternating water flow caused by the rocking of the floating module array on the surface of the water in the base reservoir during wind gusts. However, due to the resistance of the flow power plant, there will be greater fluctuations in the water level in the base reservoir and, at the same time, the rocking of the floating module array will be dampened.

[0609] The electrical energy produced in this solar, wind or water power plant can be advantageously stored directly in the pumped storage power plant according to the invention.

[0610] Biogas, which will be produced spontaneously in the pumped water, or which will be produced in it in a targeted manner, can be advantageously separated, advantageously from the gas fdling the gas space of the module reservoirs, advantageously by means of a vent pipe, and stored in a biogas storage reservoir for further, in particular energy, use.

[0611] The side walls and upper platform of the pumped storage power plant can also be used for other purposes, such as housing, sports and recreational activities, as a viewing tower or for advertising.

[0612] In a pumped storage power plant, during the periodic conversion of electrical energy into potential energy and back, a significant portion (approximately 20 to 25%) of the electrical and mechanical energy is converted into waste heat, in particular mechanical energy consumed by friction and turbulence of water in the pipes and in the turbine or pump during pumping, which manifests itself in the heating of water, air and structural parts of the pumped storage power plant.

[0613] The waste heat accumulated in the pumped water can be advantageously transferred directly or via heat exchangers.

[0614] Part of the waste heat is transferred from the module array to the water in the lake or to the subsoil, either directly by pumping the heated water from the floating module array into the lake, or indirectly through the walls of the floating module array, in particular through the floats of the floating module array, which are heated by heat transfer from the supported module reservoirs and pipes. The water in the lake can heat up, which can threaten its biological balance. In addition, there may be increased evaporation and thickening of the water in the lake, which must be replenished to a greater extent from the flowing watercourse. Heating the module array can be an advantage in winter, as it reduces the risk of water freezing in the module reservoirs and the surrounding terrain.

[0615] Part of the waste heat remains in the pumped storage power plant and can gradually increase the temperature of the pumped water and the pumped storage power plant, which also increases the number of mineral deposits in the module reservoirs, the transfer pipes and the power units.

[0616] In the case of a pumped storage power plant comprising an artificial and / or natural reservoir, i.e. with an open water circulation, the transfer of waste heat to the water in the artificial and / or natural reservoir shall be sufficiently efficient throughout the year, even at the cost of increased water evaporation and the need for water replenishment.

[0617] In the case of a pumped storage power plant comprising a stationary module array or a floating module array, i.e. with a closed water circuit, which are not immersed in the base reservoir, the pumped water remains in the pumped storage power plant and will not be significantly cooled directly by the surrounding environment. The transfer pipes and power units are also arranged in the pumped storage power plant and are not exposed to ambient air flow.

[0618] Part of the waste heat from the pumped storage power plant is discharged into the ambient air through the side and upper walls of the pumped storage power plant by natural air flow.

[0619] Natural waste heat dissipation may not be significant here even in winter or in windy weather.

[0620] On the contrary, the pumped storage power plant may be heated by solar radiation.

[0621] A significant portion of the waste heat will remain in the pumped storage power plant, and the increased temperature of the pumped water could complicate the operation of the pumped storage powerplant and the working conditions for operators and maintenance personnel.

[0622] To prevent overheating of the pumped storage power plant, excess waste heat must be removed by additional cooling.

[0623] The pumped storage power plant advantageously comprises cooling equipment, preferably air cooling equipment, for cooling the pumped fluid, modules, piping and the transfer unit.

[0624] Perimeter modules of the module array, which comprise vertical pumped water or air pipes and serve as chimneys, are advantageously used as air cooling devices.

[0625] The transfer pipe is advantageously branched in the peripheral energy modules so that its surface and thus its heat exchange area is larger.

[0626] The branched recirculation pipe is advantageously arranged in the shape of a heat exchanger.

[0627] Due to lower material costs, the heat exchanger is advantageously formed in the low-pressure part of the transfer pipe connecting the lower module reservoirs with the energy unit.

[0628] The heat exchanger is advantageously arranged in the lower part of the perimeter module.

[0629] The heat exchanger is advantageously arranged over the entire height of the vertical transfer pipe.

[0630] The transfer pipe is advantageously provided with fins to increase the heat exchange surface.

[0631] Air is advantageously supplied to the perimeter module from the outside environment through a side opening in the lower part of the perimeter module, flows around the transfer pipe or around the transfer unit, from which it removes waste heat, rises upwards due to natural draft as a result of heating, and is discharged from the standard module to the outside environment through an opening in the upper part of the standard module.

[0632] The vertical spaces between selected standard modules in the interior of the pumped storage power plant, which form a chimney, serve as cooling devices, with these spaces between selected standard modules equipped with openings in the horizontal reinforcements between the standard modules to allow cooling air to pass through. Suitable standard modules are selected so that the cooling of the modules in the module array is as uniform as possible.

[0633] Air is supplied from the outside environment to the lower part of the internal spaces of the module array, preferably through access openings in the perimeter modules, flows horizontally, preferably around the transfer unit, then around the collection pipe through access corridors at the level below and above the module reservoirs, then flows vertically upwards around the module reservoirs and supports, from which it removes waste heat, rises upwards due to heating by natural draft and is discharged to the outdoor environment through the spaces between the standard modules or between groups of standard modules.

[0634] All walls of the spaces between the standard modules designated as cooling devices are preferably made of corrosion-resistant material. The spaces between the other standard modules are closed and filled with dry inert gas to protect them from corrosion.

[0635] The horizontal access corridors at the level below and above the module reservoirs are preferably used as cooling devices. The walls of the module reservoirs, the collection pipes and the transfer units, which form heat exchange surfaces in the access corridors, are cooled in windy weather by the draught of air supplied and extracted through openings in the perimeter modules.

[0636] The air flow for cooling through the horizontal access corridors also ensures their ventilation to create acceptable climatic conditions for operating and maintenance personnel.

[0637] The openings for air supply and exhaust created in the modules around the perimeter of the module array are advantageously fitted with grilles to prevent the ingress of unwanted objects or birds.

[0638] Heat exchangers, which advantageously form a chimney and are arranged outside the module array, e.g. on the bank of the base reservoir, are advantageously used as cooling devices. The pumped water is fed from the pumped storage power plant through a pipe to the heat exchanger, where it is cooled by air using natural draught caused by the rising heated air or by forced draught caused by a fan, and after cooling it is returned to the pumped storage power plant.

[0639] Even if the cooling of the pumped storage power plant by cooling devices is sufficiently effective, it will be advantageous to line the bottom of the module reservoirs with thermal insulation, or the upper bottom of the floats and the collection and transfer pipes, in order to reduce the transfer of waste heat to the bases and subsoil or to the water in the lake through the walls of the floats. It is necessary to thoroughly address the differences in the expansion of the module array and the bases.

[0640] The pumping station will change its volume due to variable temperatures.

[0641] Height changes in the pumping station are not a problem.

[0642] Changes in dimensions are not a problem for floating module arrays, which can expand freely on the water surface, but for stationary module arrays, changes in dimensions must be compensated for in the case of connected standard modules or connected groups of standard modules.

[0643] Horizontal movement of the bases to ensure expansion is difficult to achieve.

[0644] It is therefore advantageous to create a module array from groups of standard modules with separate bases, with these groups of standard modules preferably connected by reinforcements that allow thermal expansion between the groups of standard modules.

[0645] Individual groups of standard modules can then easily tolerate different subsidence of the subsoil and no mechanical stress will arise between them for this reason. However, in the event of uneven subsidence of the subsoil, groups of standard modules will tilt, and it is necessary to rectify them in good time.

[0646] In order for the module array to be able to withstand strong side winds, it is advantageous to make the perimeter modules or perimeter groups of standard modules more rigid and with deeper bases. The side wind load will be advantageously absorbed by the perimeter parts of the module array and will not be transferred to the inner groups of standard modules.

[0647] A system of interlocking standard modules is relatively flexible in the horizontal plane, so it is advantageous not to divide it into groups of standard modules, or these groups may comprise a larger number of standard modules. The modules can be fixed to the bases and, when the temperature rises and subsequent surface expansion occurs due to waste heat, the shape of the standard modules flexibly adapts to the anchoring in the bases.

[0648] It is advantageous for the gas pipe to be led from each separate gas space, i.e. the float and its segment, the module reservoir and support, and the space between them, to the perimeter of the module array.

[0649] It is advantageous for each separate gas section to have its own shut-off valve.

[0650] This increases the length of the piping, but the shut-off valves can be arranged in a cooler area, which significantly increases the reliability of these shut-off valves and improves working conditions for operation and maintenance, even when the temperature of the pumped water in the module area increases due to waste heat.

[0651] When the temperature of the pumped water increases, the temperature of the gas in the gas spaces of the pumped storage power plant also increases, and if these spaces are enclosed, the gas pressure also increases.

[0652] In order to avoid having to dimension gas pressure vessels and gas pipes for this increased pressure, it is advantageous to equip the pumped storage power plant with a compressor station. Here, excess gas from the gas spaces will be compressed or even liquefied and stored in reservoirs from which the gas can be withdrawn again to replenish the gas spaces of the pumped storage power plant when the temperature and thus the gas pressure drops.

[0653] The compact design and large dimensions of the module array according to the invention enable efficient secondary use of waste heat accumulated in the pumped storage power plant, which increases the overall energy efficiency of pumping.

[0654] The use of waste heat is expected primarily in pumped storage power plants, where the heat from the heated pumped water is not transferred directly or indirectly to the water in the base reservoir.

[0655] Advantageously, the bottom of the floating module array is designed as a continuous surface, reducing the heat exchange area of the float part of conventional modules with water in the base reservoir.

[0656] Heat exchangers may advantageously comprise tube bundles in which the heat from the heated pumped water is transferred to the water for secondary use.

[0657] Heat exchangers can be arranged in perimeter energy modules.

[0658] Heat exchangers are advantageously arranged outside the module array.

[0659] Waste heat can be used to generate electricity and / or heat water in an external heating system.

[0660] The pumped storage power plant can thus also serve as a heat storage facility.

[0661] The pumped storage power plant advantageously comprises a device for removing heat from the pumped water.

[0662] A pumped storage power plant advantageously comprises a device for additional heat supply to the pumped water. If the pumped storage power plant also serves advantageously as a heat storage reservoir, the heat capacity of the heat storage reservoir can be increased by the heat supply. If the pumped storagepower plant does not serve as a heat storage reservoir, the heat supply at least prevents the pumped water from freezing in winter.

[0663] The device for removing heat from the pumped water and / or the device for supplying heat to the pumped water is advantageously connected: all module reservoirs, with the lower array of module reservoirs and / or with the upper array of module reservoirs.

[0664] The device for removing heat advantageously comprises a heat exchanger, a circulation pipe and a circulation pump. The module reservoirs are connected to the heat exchanger by means of the circulation pipe and the circulation pump.

[0665] Heat is transferred from the extraction heat exchanger via a building circulation pipe to the building heat exchangers in the heated building.

[0666] The heat supply device advantageously comprises a heating heat exchanger, a heating circulation pipe and a heating circulation pump. The heating heat exchanger is connected to the module reservoirs and / or the extraction heat exchanger by means of the heating circulation pipe and the heating circulation pump.

[0667] The heat supply device advantageously comprises a heat exchanger which is arranged directly in the module reservoir, the heat exchanger being connected to the energy supply. The energy can be supplied in various forms, e.g. as thermal energy or as electrical energy, for example by means of a resistance heating element or a high-frequency heating element.

[0668] The transfer pipe is advantageously double from the module reservoirs, mainly to increase operational reliability.

[0669] The pumped storage power plant according to the invention advantageously comprises a device for generating electrical energy from waste heat, advantageously from the heat of heated air.

[0670] The device for generating electrical energy is advantageously formed by the cooling device of the pumped storage power plant, which comprises an air motor with a generator, wherein the spaces of the cooling device form a chimney, especially in the case of a high module array.

[0671] Air from the outside atmosphere is freely fed into the chimney, where it is heated by the waste heat of the pumped water, creating a natural chimney draught in the chimney, part of the waste heat of the water is converted into kinetic and pressure energy of the air, which is converted into electrical energy in the air motor with generator, after which the air is freely discharged from the chimney into the ambient air.

[0672] The air motor with generator converts the kinetic or pressure energy of the heated air into mechanical work and then converts it into electrical energy. An isobaric motor advantageously converts the kinetic energy of the heated air, while a superheated motor converts the pressure energy of the heated air. The air motor can be installed at any height in the chimney. When installing a positive pressure air motor in the lower part of the chimney, the negative pressure of the heated air is used, while when installing an air motor in the upper part of the chimney, the positive pressure of the heated air is used.

[0673] In the perimeter modules and in designated spaces between the internal standard modules of the module array, waste heat from the walls of the standard modules or the water transfer pipe is transferred to the flowing air gradually over the entire height, so that the air density also decreases gradually with height and is therefore not the same throughout the entire height, which reduces the achievable air pressure difference in the chimney draught.

[0674] The recirculation pipe in the perimeter energy module can be branched and ribbed to form a heat exchanger, which is arranged in the lower part of the energy module, so that almost all waste heat from the water is transferred to the flowing air immediately in the lower part of the energy module and the air density is low throughout the entire height of the energy module. If the heat output of the heat exchanger is the same as in the previous design, the chimney draught will increase to approximately twice that of the previous design.

[0675] The heat from the motor generators of the power units can be advantageously dissipated by cooling them with pumped water, which also improves the climatic conditions in the engine rooms.

[0676] The pumped storage power plant according to the invention advantageously comprises a device for generating electrical energy ( ) using a steam cycle from the heat of the heated pumped water or the water vapour produced.

[0677] According to the third alternative feature of the invention, the surface of at least one modulereservoir is provided with a cover at least on the side and / or at least on the top, the space between the cover and the module reservoir being filled with gas, liquid or solid.

[0678] When this alternative feature is used alone, a free space is created between the cover and the covered module reservoir, which is filled with gas, preferably dry air, or with a liquid, preferably with water or oil, preferably filled with a solid substance, e.g. thermal insulation, preferably filled with a substance that changes its state of aggregation when the temperature changes, e.g. paraffin.

[0679] This arrangement allows relatively easy access for inspection and maintenance of the module reservoir or its outer surface.

[0680] If the cover is made of metal, the gas gap prevents the formation of a galvanic cell between the module reservoir and the cover.

[0681] It follows from the nature of this feature of the invention that other parts of the pumped storage power plant, such as pipes or power units, may also be provided with a cover.

[0682] The essence of this feature of the invention also implies that the surface of an array of module reservoirs can be covered with a cover without the individual module reservoirs also being covered.

[0683] This arrangement may be more advantageous than covering the surface of each module reservoir with a cover. For example, it greatly facilitates access to the module reservoirs for inspection and maintenance.

[0684] The surface of a conventional module is advantageously provided with a cover.

[0685] The surface of the module array is advantageously provided with a cover.

[0686] In combination with another alternative feature of the invention, the cover may also have a different form, e.g. the form of a coating, or the module reservoir or module reservoir system or modular system may not be provided with any cover.

[0687] The cover advantageously comprises hinged parts: for the purpose of replacing or repairing module reservoirs or pipes, for dissipating heat from the module reservoir system, e.g. during repairs to module reservoirs or pipes, or e.g. for heating buildings.

[0688] Removable parts may also comprise doors and similar removable elements arranged in the cover, which are used for access by operating and maintenance personnel to the module reservoir system or for emergency ventilation of this space.

[0689] This cover advantageously protects not only the module reservoirs or modules, but also the piping connected to the module reservoirs and arranged inside the cover.

[0690] The cover may have various designs, including suitable metal or non-metal materials depending on the purpose of use, and may have various effects.

[0691] Depending on its purpose, the cover may advantageously protect only part of the surface of the protected object. For example, the cover may protect the surface of the protected object only from above, e.g. against rain, in which case it may have the shape of a roof.

[0692] The cover may, for example, protect the surface of the protected object only from the side, e.g. against deliberate damage by vandals, in which case it may have the shape of a fence or protective wall around an array of module reservoirs.

[0693] A cover may, for example, protect the surface of the protected object, e.g. the surface of a module reservoir system, only from above and from the sides, i.e. the vertical sides, e.g. against strong wind, and preferably also provide ballistic protection.

[0694] The walls of the cover are advantageously reinforced by a supporting structure, preferably a truss structure.

[0695] The perimeter structure of the cover walls is advantageously connected by an internal structure, preferably a truss structure, which can connect opposite walls of the perimeter structure. The resulting structure is very rigid, can withstand even the strongest winds and can be lightweight and therefore economical.

[0696] Due to thermal expansion in the module reservoir system, it may be sufficient to reinforce each vertical wall beam of the module reservoir system with a separate truss field several metres deep. The thermal expansion of the vertical beam will then only need to be compensated for in the vertical direction.

[0697] Solar panels and / or wind turbines can be installed on the upper platform or on the vertical perimeter walls of the cover, which are electrically connected as a source of electrical energy to the device for supplying heat to the pumped water.

[0698] The cover can be made of parts with minimal assembly gaps between them, so that it can reduce heat loss from the module reservoir system, in particular heat loss caused by wind passing around the module reservoir system.

[0699] The cover may advantageously comprise thermal insulation or may be made of a thermally insulating material with minimised thermal bridges and may then reduce heat losses from the module reservoir system to only those caused by heat transfer through the walls of the cover.

[0700] The cover can be advantageously designed as gas-tight, e.g. a gas-tight shell, in which case the space between the cover and the modules can be filled with an inert gas to protect the parts of the module reservoir system arranged inside the cover against corrosion. The gas-tight shell can be advantageously designed as a gas-tight coating.

[0701] The cover can be made as a liquid-tight jacket, in which case the space between the cover and the modules can be filled with a liquid that can serve to protect the modules or as a heat transfer medium for heat accumulation. Up to the level of the liquid, this liquid-tight jacket must also be resistant to internal hydrostatic overpressure of the liquid.

[0702] The lower, floor part of the cover is advantageously used to support the modules and must therefore have adequate load-bearing capacity.

[0703] Module reservoirs and pipes in a module reservoir system protected by a cover against external influences can thus be designed only for the load of the pumped water, which reduces the initial costs.

[0704] The cover can be advantageously made from a combination of different materials, from heatinsulating material, from a steel gas-tight shell, and can be reinforced with a truss structure. It can thus provide protection against a wider range of influences, e.g. it can combine protection against heat loss and corrosion of the module reservoir system and at the same time be resistant to strong winds.

[0705] The module reservoir system can be conveniently equipped with several covers made of different materials, each of which will provide protection against a different influence and protect a different group of parts of the module reservoir system.

[0706] The covers can be layered on top of each other in different orders according to the importance of the protective effects.

[0707] The module reservoir system advantageously comprises, in the first layer, an inner cover with thermal insulation, which is provided on the module reservoir system, and in the next layer an outer cover which also covers the device for supplying heat to the pumped water and the device for removing heat from the pumped water, this outer cover protecting all the above-mentioned parts against weather influences.

[0708] It is advantageous for the heat exchange surfaces of the pumped storage power plant that are in contact with the environment, i.e. with the surrounding atmosphere and / or with the foundation or supporting elements, to be provided with a cover in the form of thermal insulation. At the same time, this thermal insulation advantageously does not allow water or air to pass through, otherwise its thermal insulation properties would be reduced.

[0709] This reduces the transfer of waste heat from the water pumping process to the environment and significantly increases the ability of the pumped storage power plant to accumulate this waste heat.

[0710] This increases the temperature of the pumped water and the structure of the pumped storage power plant, thereby increasing the efficiency of waste heat utilisation.

[0711] In addition to or instead of covering the entire surface of the module reservoir system with thermal insulation, it is advantageous to provide all or some of the module reservoirs with thermal insulation. With the same thickness of thermal insulation, this type of thermal insulation is significantly more expensive, but it allows different water temperatures to be maintained in the individual module reservoirs.

[0712] It is advantageous to provide thermal insulation on the surface of each floor of the module reservoirs.

[0713] It is advantageous for the outer surface of the module reservoir system on the side in contact with the atmosphere, and preferably also on the side in contact with the foundation or supporting elements, to be equipped with thermal insulation.

[0714] The bottom of the module reservoirs is preferably equipped with thermal insulation.

[0715] The temperature in the transfer pipe space below the module reservoirs is reduced, allowing for better monitoring of the equipment and easier repairs.

[0716] It is also advantageous for the supports to be provided with thermal insulation, preferably around the perimeter of the module array.

[0717] The supports are preferably made of heat-insulating material that has the necessary compressivestrength to support the module reservoirs, preferably of aerated concrete, preferably for stationary standard modules.

[0718] The floats are also advantageously provided with thermal insulation, preferably around the perimeter of the module array.

[0719] The module array is preferably arranged in a building equipped with thermal insulation or in a building made of thermally insulating material.

[0720] The thermal insulation is preferably at least partially removable, so that the thermal insulation can be closed or opened.

[0721] During extensive repairs or renovations, it is advantageous to reduce the temperature in the module space for safe entry of workers. In such situations, the removable insulation can be quickly opened to achieve faster cooling of the module array.

[0722] After closing the insulation, heat will accumulate again in the module array, which can be further utilised.

[0723] The thermal insulation is advantageously designed as vacuum thermal insulation, which comprises an inner gas-tight shell, an outer gas-tight shell and insulation material arranged in the space between the inner gas-tight shell and the outer gas-tight shell,

[0724] where a vacuum is created in the space between the inner gas-tight shell and the outer gas-tight shell,

[0725] wherein the inner gas-tight shell and / or the outer gas-tight shell comprises expansion elements for compensating dimensional changes of the inner gas-tight shell and / or the outer gas-tight shell relative to the insulating material as a result of temperature changes and as a result of the vacuum.

[0726] Vacuum thermal insulation advantageously surrounds the ceiling, vertical walls and floor of the module array, i.e. it is formed as a continuous layer over the entire surface of the module array, with uniform thermal properties and without thermal bridges.

[0727] Vacuum thermal insulation in smaller module arrays forms a relatively rigid, self-supporting structure that can withstand weather conditions well.

[0728] In larger module arrays, the vertical walls and upper parts (ceiling) of the vacuum thermal insulation could be subjected to considerable stress due to their own weight and weather conditions, which could cause them to collapse.

[0729] The thermal insulation according to the invention advantageously comprises a supporting structure which is connected on the outside of the vacuum thermal insulation to an inner gas-tight shell and / or to an outer gas-tight shell.

[0730] The gas-tight shell is advantageously made by welding a metal sheet which is almost impermeable to common gases, resistant to higher temperatures and has a significantly longer service life than plastic materials. The sheet is advantageously made of steel or aluminium.

[0731] The outer gas-tight shell is preferably made of stainless steel, and its vertical walls and upper parts can be made of galvanised carbon steel.

[0732] In the case of vacuum thermal insulation covering the entire surface of the module array, the lower part (floor) of the outer gas-tight shell will be laid on the bases, making it more difficult to access for inspection, and it is therefore advisable to dimension it more generously.

[0733] Continuous vacuum thermal insulation can be advantageously provided only on part of the surface of the module array, e.g. only on the vertical walls and ceiling of the module array.

[0734] At points where the vacuum thermal insulation is interrupted, it is advantageous to have an inner gas-tight shell, an outer gas-tight shell and, preferably, also insulation material connected by a bridging gastight shell.

[0735] The floor of the module array can then be fitted with a simple separate gas-tight shell, which will be gas-tight connected to the vertical walls of the vacuum thermal insulation, preferably using a flexible plastic or rubber gas-tight material that has low thermal conductivity and withstands the temperatures inside the module array. Insulation material will be arranged under this separate gas-tight shell and will be arranged on the bases in the subsoil. The separate gas-tight shell in the floor will therefore be accessible for inspection at least from the inside of the module array. The insulation material in the floor of the module array will probably have higher thermal permeability than vacuum thermal insulation, which can be at least partially solved by using thicker insulation material.

[0736] Vacuum thermal insulation can be created as a continuous layer covering the entire surface of theinsulated part, e.g. the ceiling and vertical walls, or it can be divided into separate continuous areas, e.g. separately for the ceiling and separately for all vertical walls, or also separately for each vertical wall around the perimeter of the module array.

[0737] In areas of transition between individual continuous areas of vacuum thermal insulation or in areas of transition to areas insulated with another type of thermal insulation, thermal bridges may occur, which can be solved by additional thermal insulation, e.g. inserts of soft insulating material, e.g. mineral wool, or by covering them with vacuum insulation panels (VIP).

[0738] The assembly parts of gas-tight shells can be manufactured in standardised sizes to facilitate connection with expansion elements and to reduce the cost of mass production.

[0739] Expansion elements of the gas-tight shell for compensating dimensional changes in metal sheets due to temperature changes and thus for reducing internal stresses and undesirable deformations can be designed as bends, corrugations or edges on the edges of the gas-tight shell parts or at smaller distances on the surface of these parts.

[0740] The gas-tight shell, especially if it is not connected to the supporting structure, can be advantageously made of a plastic material resistant to elevated temperatures, e.g. Teflon, preferably by spraying.

[0741] At points where the gas-tight shells of the vacuum thermal insulation are interrupted, e.g. at points where doors are arranged in the vacuum thermal insulation, inspection openings and pipe or electrical cable passages, or where continuous areas of vacuum thermal insulation adjoin other areas of thermal insulation, the inner gas-tight shell, outer gas-tight shell and insulating material are connected by a bridging gas-tight shell.

[0742] Plastic, e.g. Teflon, is a good choice for the bridging gas-tight shell, as it creates almost no thermal bridges because it has significantly lower thermal conductivity than metal.

[0743] Since these plastic parts of the gas-tight shell will have a shorter service life than the metal parts, it is necessary to ensure regular inspection of their condition and repair procedures.

[0744] The interior of the module array may comprise an inert atmosphere, in which case the inner gastight shell can be made of ordinary steel without oxidising.

[0745] The insulation material inside the vacuum thermal insulation should be selected according to the load to which it will be exposed within the thermal insulation of the module array.

[0746] It is also advantageous to provide vacuum thermal insulation for the floor of the module array, in which case it is advantageous to place the hot water module reservoirs on the internal gas-tight shell.

[0747] The bottoms of the module reservoirs can advantageously be part of the inner gas-tight shell.

[0748] It is therefore advantageous to use insulating material made of aerated concrete with a strength according to the load for the lower part of the vacuum thermal insulation, i.e. in addition to being clamped by gas-tight shells due to the vacuum, especially according to the height of the modular hot water reservoirs.

[0749] If the vacuum thermal insulation is secured by a supporting structure, it will be advantageous to use a lightweight insulating material, such as pressed mineral wool, for the vertical walls of the vacuum thermal insulation, as it will not transfer any additional load from the upper part of the vacuum thermal insulation, apart from being clamped by the gas-tight shells due to the vacuum.

[0750] The vertical walls of the vacuum thermal insulation can be used to mount solar panels. In this case, it is advantageous for the solar power plant panels to have a very light construction so that they do not place too much load on the outer gas-tight shell, or it will be advantageous to construct a separate structure anchored to the bases around the perimeter of the vacuum thermal insulation of the module array for their installation.

[0751] The upper part (ceiling) of the vacuum thermal insulation can also be used to install solar panels, and the load from workers walking on it must also be taken into account.

[0752] For the placement of solar panels and for workers to walk on, it may be advantageous to construct an additional structure that can be attached to the beams of the vacuum thermal insulation support structure but will not transfer the load to the vacuum thermal insulation.

[0753] A lightweight insulating material, such as pressed mineral wool, can then be used for the upper part of the vacuum thermal insulation, as it will not transfer any additional load apart from its own weight and the vacuum-tight shell.

[0754] The internal space between the inner and outer gas-tight shells can also be flushed with an inert gas so that, after it is extracted, the vacuum comprises only a minimum of oxygen that could cause corrosionon the inner surface of the gas-tight shells.

[0755] It is advantageous to create channels in the insulation material blocks inside the vacuum thermal insulation, which connect to each other when the insulation material blocks are assembled between the inner and outer gas-tight shells. The network of channels serves to increase the speed of vacuuming the insulation material. The greater the number of channels created in the insulation material blocks, the faster the vacuuming can proceed. The disadvantage of this design is that if a leak occurs in the gas-tight shell, the gas entering the insulation material spreads more easily through the channels into the entire volume of the vacuum thermal insulation. The channels must be able to withstand the pressure of the insulation material.

[0756] Thermal imaging cameras can be used to check the tightness of gas-tight shells and to arrange leaks.

[0757] For vacuum thermal insulation, preferably on the outside of the outer gas-tight shell, the following can be connected to ensure reliable, continuous operation: monitoring devices, e.g. a pressure gauge, to check the vacuum quality, and a vacuum pump to extract air in the event of a leak in the gas-tight enclosures; air extraction can also be carried out during the detection and repair of leaks.

[0758] The supporting structure can be arranged on the outside of the module array.

[0759] Installation is carried out from the outside inwards. First, the outer gas-tight shell is attached to the support structure, then the insulating material is attached to it and finally the inner gas-tight shell is installed. Any openings in the gas-tight shells created during attachment to the supporting structure, during fastening of the insulating material and during the manufacture of doors and openings, e.g. for the passage of pipes and cables, must be sealed. The air is then extracted from the space between the inner gas-tight shell and the outer gas-tight shell.

[0760] Due to the vacuum between the gas-tight shells and the higher temperature inside the module array compared to the outer gas-tight shell, the inner gas-tight shell expands but does not deform because its expansion elements are compressed.

[0761] The supporting structure can be arranged in the interior of the module array.

[0762] During installation, proceed from the inside out. First, attach the inner gas-tight shell to the supporting structure, then attach the insulation material to it, and finally install the outer gas-tight shell. Any openings in the gastight shells created during attachment to the supporting structure, during fastening of the insulating material and during the manufacture of doors and openings, e.g. for pipes and cables, must be sealed. The air is then extracted from the space between the inner gas-tight shell and the outer gas-tight shell.

[0763] Due to the vacuum between the gas-tight shells and the higher temperature inside the module array, the inner gas-tight shell expands, but the outer gas-tight shell adapts to this change by means of expansion elements.

[0764] The advantage of this arrangement is easier access to the working surfaces of the vacuum thermal insulation and easier handling of the assembly parts.

[0765] The support columns of the supporting structure, which carry the ceiling parts of the horizontal part of the supporting structure, are advantageously arranged on the lower part of the inner gas-tight shell and are connected to the ceiling parts in a sliding manner in the horizontal plane, e.g. the ceiling parts are mounted on the support columns by means of rolling elements. The support columns can be advantageously arranged directly on the bases, but then thermal bridges are created at the points where the thermal insulation passes through, which require additional thermal insulation.

[0766] The supporting structure can be a combination of the two previous designs, e.g. the supporting structure arranged on the outside of the module array can be supplemented with internal columns and an internal horizontal structure to support the ceiling part of the vacuum thermal insulation.

[0767] Vacuum thermal insulation can also be used on a module array that will be arranged on uneven terrain or on a slope.

[0768] Both stationary and floating module arrays can be equipped with vacuum thermal insulation.

[0769] Stationary module arrays are best arranged on bases built on solid subsoil.

[0770] Floating module arrays are best arranged on floats submerged in water in a base water reservoir.

[0771] Since vacuum thermal insulation retains heat well, the floating module array will not significantly heat the water in the base reservoir via the floats. Only the metal structure connecting the floats to the superstructure of the module array, including thermal insulation, and for anchoring to the shore of the basereservoir will likely cause thermal bridges, which can be partially solved by additional thermal insulation.

[0772] Expansion elements in the gas-tight shell also allow for dimensional changes in the module array's mounting, e.g. due to uneven subsidence of the bases on the subsoil in the case of a stationary module array or due to the swaying of the floats on the water surface in the base reservoir in the case of a floating module array.

[0773] The thermal insulation according to the invention is also subjected to variable loads from internal influences, in particular from temperature changes or from the amount of fdling in the module array, as well as from external influences such as changes in outside temperature and wind speed.

[0774] The vacuum thermal insulation according to the invention has good prerequisites for widespread use: it is effective over a wide range of temperatures, at temperatures well below 0 °C and at temperatures around 80 °C and above, it is simple in design, yet strong and flexible, it is space-saving, the total thickness of the thermal insulation can be, for example, 5 to 15 cm depending on the choice of insulation material and the quality of the vacuum, the type, structure and strength of the insulation material are optimally selected according to its location in the thermal insulation complex and the expected load, thin sheets can be used for gas-tight shells, making them lightweight, in combination with a protective atmosphere inside the insulated module array, inexpensive materials can be used for the inner gas-tight shell, expansion elements protect it against vacuum overload and temperature changes in the dimensions of the gas-tight shells and insulation material, as well as against uneven subsidence of the bases in the subsoil, it is resistant to strong winds and other adverse weather conditions, when reinforced with a supporting structure, it can also be used for large modular structures and its surface can be used for solar panels, it is easily accessible for inspection and maintenance, it is several times more effective than conventional thermal insulation of comparable thickness,It does not comprise any harmful materials and does not produce harmful emissions.It is reliable, safe, inexpensive, uses commonly available materials and can have a long service life.

[0775] The waste heat accumulated in the pumped water can be used, especially in winter, to heat residential, industrial, agricultural and recreational buildings in the surrounding municipalities.

[0776] After commissioning, waste heat can be accumulated in the pumped storage power plant for 4 to 6 months and, once the water temperature reaches the required value, e.g. 55 °C, it can be efficiently extracted seasonally for heating and year-round for heating drinking water for washing. It will usually be advantageous to heat the water to 75-80 °C and then start consuming the heat. During the heating season, the temperature of the accumulated water will drop to 55 °C. In spring, heat extraction for heating will stop and by the following autumn, the temperature of the accumulated water will rise again to the required value.

[0777] As the temperature of the pumped water increases, heat losses also increase and the efficiency of waste heat utilisation decreases.

[0778] Depending on the size of the pumped storage power plant, in particular the volume of water pumped and the quality of the thermal insulation, up to 90% of the waste heat can be utilised in this way.

[0779] It is advantageous to plan the number of heated buildings so that the pumped storage power plant has a heat reserve for frosty periods when it will be necessary to supply increased amounts of heat for heating for several days in a row.

[0780] It is advantageous for each module array to be connected to a different heating system. It is advantageous for the lower module array to heat the adjacent residential area and for the upper module array to heat mountain hotels.

[0781] Since the module reservoirs can be used in their entire volume during pumping, a situation may arise where all the hot water from the module reservoirs of one module array is pumped into the module reservoirs of the second module array and the heating system connected to the empty module reservoirs would remain without heat for a certain period of time.

[0782] It is therefore advantageous to leave a reserve volume of heated water in the module reservoirs of the module array connected to the heating system to bridge the period until hot water is pumped back intothese empty module reservoirs from the full module reservoirs.

[0783] The transfer pipe is preferably double from the module reservoirs so that it can be used as part of the circulation pipe to remove heat from the transferred water from both the lower and upper module arrays or to supply additional heat to the transferred water.

[0784] The main lines of the transfer pipe connecting the lower module array and the upper module array are also advantageously double. This allows connection anywhere along the transfer pipe route for the purpose of heat removal or supply. The overpressure at the connection point of the transfer pipe, which results from the height difference compared to the level of the transferred water in the connected module reservoir system, must be taken into account.

[0785] The efficiency of this higher-temperature waste heat and thus the heating circuit of the heated buildings can be increased by using heat pumps or direct heating with biomass, natural gas or electricity.

[0786] The waste heat accumulated in the pumped water at a higher temperature can be advantageously used for secondary electricity generation, especially outside the heating season.

[0787] The efficiency of waste heat utilisation for electricity generation from water with a relatively low temperature will be lower than from water or steam with a high temperature, similar to electricity generation from heated gas.

[0788] The pumped storage power plant according to the invention advantageously comprises safety devices, such as water level sensors and water flow sensors, pressure gauges for measuring the pressure and flow of the gas filling, sensors for the position and movement of the floating module array, or for the expansion or contraction of the stationary module array.

[0789] The pumped storage power plant advantageously comprises a measuring, regulating and control system that ensures the safe operation of the power plant. Advantageously, the measuring, regulating and control system is automatic and automatically makes the necessary changes in the pumping process.

[0790] The measuring, regulating and control system in the stationary embodiment of the pumped storage power plant must ensure, above all, the even distribution of water in all module reservoirs, ensure their even filling for an efficient use of their capacity, and maintain the stability of the module array on the subsoil.

[0791] Measurements are performed using measuring elements consisting of level gauges in the upper and lower module reservoirs and a flow meter.

[0792] The level gauges measure the water level in the reservoirs and can be arranged in each module reservoir or in a reference module reservoir within a group of module reservoirs.

[0793] The flow meter measures the water flow in the main transfer pipe near the transfer unit.

[0794] Shut-off valves arranged in the pipe are used for regulation. These shut-off valves can be advantageously designed with adjustable closure.

[0795] Water shut-off valves are primarily used for primary control of the transfer cycle. These can be arranged in the transfer pipe before the inlet to each module reservoir or in the transfer pipe before the inlet to each group of module reservoirs.

[0796] For secondary regulation of the transfer cycle, to improve the control process in terms of greater safety and smoother operation of the transfer cycle, gas seals can also be used, which can be arranged in the vent pipe before the inlet to each module reservoir or in the vent pipe before the inlet to each group of module reservoirs.

[0797] During pumping, the measuring, regulating and control system uses level gauges to measure the water level in the module reservoir and checks whether it corresponds to the monitored value and its change against the total water flow.

[0798] If a deviation of the measured values above the specified limit within the tolerance range is detected, a control intervention is triggered by a shut-off valve.

[0799] Initially, the relevant water shut-off valve in the transfer pipe intervenes, restricting or increasing the water flow to the relevant module reservoir or group of reservoirs in order to return the water level to the monitored value.

[0800] If the response is insufficient or too slow, i.e. above the monitored tolerance level set for the monitored value, a secondary intervention by the gas shut-off valve will occur, which will accelerate, restrict or completely stop the ventilation of the module reservoir, resulting in negative or positive gas pressure in the module reservoir and restricting or accelerating the water flow.

[0801] The use of the gas shut-off valve is limited by the maximum permissible negative or positive pressure of the gas in the module reservoir. Regulatory interventions are primarily controlled so as not torestrict the overall water flow.

[0802] If the maximum tolerance range of the measured variables is reached, the measuring, regulating and control system stops the pumping process.

[0803] When the pumping process is stopped, depending on the specific operating conditions, all water and gas shut-off valves are closed and / or the main water shut-off valve in the transfer pipe is closed and / or the transfer unit is stopped.

[0804] The measuring, regulating and control system in the floating embodiment of the pumped storage power plant must ensure, above all, the even distribution of water in all module reservoirs, ensure their even filling for efficient use of their capacity and maintain the equilibrium position of the module array relative to the level of the base reservoir.

[0805] Measurements are taken using measuring devices, which are preferably level gauges in the upper and lower module reservoirs, a flow meter and a gyroscope.

[0806] The level gauges measure the water level in the reservoirs and can be arranged in each module reservoir or in a reference module reservoir within a group of module reservoirs.

[0807] The flow meter measures the water flow in the main transfer pipe near the transfer unit.

[0808] The gyroscope measures the tilt of the module array on the water level in the base reservoir.

[0809] The primary measuring elements are the water level gauges and flow meter, and the secondary measuring element is the gyroscope.

[0810] Valves arranged in the pipe are used for regulation. These valves can be advantageously designed with adjustable closure.

[0811] Water shut-off valves are primarily used for the initial regulation of the transfer cycle. These can be arranged in the transfer pipe before the inlet to each module reservoir or in the transfer pipe before the inlet to each group of module reservoirs.

[0812] For secondary regulation of the transfer cycle, to improve the control process in terms of greater safety and smoother operation of the transfer cycle, gas seals can also be used, which can be arranged in the vent pipe before the inlet to each module reservoir or in the vent pipe before the inlet to each group of module reservoirs.

[0813] During pumping, the control system uses level gauges to measure the level in the module reservoir and checks whether it corresponds to the monitored value and its change against the total flow.

[0814] If a deviation of the measured values above the specified limit is detected, a control intervention is triggered by a shut-off valve.

[0815] Initially, the relevant water shut-off valve in the transfer pipe intervenes, restricting or increasing the water flow to the relevant module reservoir or group of reservoirs in order to return the water level to the monitored value.

[0816] If the response is insufficient or too slow, i .e . above the monitored tolerance level for the monitored value, a secondary intervention by the gas shut-off valve will occur, which will accelerate, restrict or completely stop the ventilation of the module reservoir, resulting in negative or positive gas pressure in the module reservoir and restricting or accelerating the water flow.

[0817] The use of the gas shut-off valve is limited by the maximum permissible negative or positive pressure of the gas in the module reservoir. Regulatory interventions are primarily controlled so as not to restrict the overall water flow.

[0818] During pumping, the control system uses a gyroscope, a secondary measuring element, to measure the level in the module reservoir and checks whether it corresponds to the monitored value and its change against the total flow.

[0819] The control system uses a gyroscope, a secondary measuring element, to measure the tilt of the floating module array and regulates this tilt caused by external influences, in particular by the surface waves of the base reservoir and the effect of wind, by means of water and gas shut-off valves.

[0820] If the tilt reaches the tolerance range, the measuring, regulating and control system limits the total water flow, even at the expense of not maintaining the required pumping capacity.

[0821] If the maximum value of the tolerance band of the measured variables is reached, the measuring, regulating and control system stops the pumping process.

[0822] When the pumping process is stopped, depending on the specific operating conditions, all water and gas shut-off valves are closed and / or the main water shut-off valve in the transfer pipe is closed and / or the transfer unit is stopped.

[0823] If a pumped storage power plant according to the invention has approval for the location of the upper module array in a mountain massif to achieve a discharge head of hundreds of metres, it is advantageous to make the best possible use of the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil to construct module reservoirs of optimum height in order to achieve a favourable ratio of investment costs to the capacity of the pumped storage power plant.

[0824] In unfavourable natural conditions (not very high hills) and especially in comparison with other energy storage options, it may be advantageous to increase the discharge height of the pumped storage power plant given by the natural massif by constructing an upper module array with high supports at the expense of the height of the module reservoirs, given the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil, even at the cost of higher specific investment costs.

[0825] The upper module array, which requires supports to create the necessary discharge head, can have a relatively very light yet tall structure, even at hundreds of metres, depending on the strength and degree of utilisation of the material used.

[0826] At the same time, it is necessary to ensure sufficient width of the module array to ensure stability in strong winds, which is a more serious problem for floating module arrays.

[0827] A pumped storage power plant of this design is therefore particularly suitable for high outputs and capacities.

[0828] Floating module arrays in large and deep base reservoirs, e.g. in glacial lakes, in lakes created in the area of mined surface mines or in the sea, or stationary module arrays on a sufficiently load-bearing and extensive subsoil can be built quite comfortably with a large head and the necessary width.

[0829] However, a powerful module array can also be obtained if several suitable smaller lakes or plots of land are available close to each other. A group of standard modules with an optimal height corresponding to the depth of the lake or the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil will be built on each lake or plot of land, and these groups of standard modules will be interconnected to form a sufficiently stable structure.

[0830] When constructing a high-capacity and high-performance pumped storage power plant according to the invention, it is necessary to ensure that the connected electrical distribution network is adequately reinforced.

[0831] The module array with high standard modules can advantageously be assembled by gradually mounting and connecting individual parts of standard modules in layers, so that the floating module array can be assembled directly on the water surface in the base reservoir, i.e. without the aid of an assembly dock.

[0832] Further layers are gradually connected to the lowest layer of standard modules so that the entire module array is balanced on the subsoil or on the surface of the base reservoir during construction and no unnecessary additional mechanical stress is created. First, the bases or floats are assembled, and then the bases and module reservoirs are layered on top of them. Accessories, in particular water and air pipes and power units, are also installed on an ongoing basis.

[0833] At the same time, it is advisable to construct a water supply for filling the module reservoirs of the pumped storage power plant.

[0834] In a system assembled from standard modules of different heights, the floats are advantageously installed by first assembling the base layer of floats with the greatest immersion depth of the inner group of standard modules, which have the greatest height.

[0835] After completing the base layer of floats, the floats of this inner group of standard modules are submerged by connecting another layer of floats, or supports or even module reservoirs (only to the extent that the stability of the assembled part on the water surface in the base reservoir is not impaired) or by partially filling the lower part of the floats or module reservoirs with water so that the floats of the adjacent outer groups of standard modules with a smaller height can be connected to them at the required level.

[0836] After completing the assembly of this layer of floats, the floats of the connected groups of standard modules are further submerged using the same procedure so that the floats of the next adjacent outer group of standard modules with a smaller height can be connected to them at the required level.

[0837] This is continued until the floats of the last group of standard modules with the smallest height are connected, whereupon the entire connected module array is further submerged so that further assembly can continue by evenly connecting further higher layers of floats, supports and module reservoirs, proportionally so that no additional mechanical stresses arise.

[0838] The upper part of the floats or their segments, which will not be flooded, will be gradually filledwith compressed gas so that the external hydrostatic pressure of the water is constantly compensated in the floats and the floats do not collapse.

[0839] During further assembly, the weight of the floating module array will increase as it gradually submerges, gradually displacing water from the base reservoir in a volume corresponding to the displacement of the empty floating module array.

[0840] During assembly, the entire volume of water can be retained in the interior of the floats. Once assembly of the floating module array is complete, this water is pumped into the module reservoirs above the floats and is then immediately available for transfer between the lower and upper module arrays without the need to pump additional water from the base reservoir. The water can be pumped out of the floats using an auxiliary pipe with built-in energy units and also by means of compressed gas, which compensates for the external hydrostatic pressure of the water inside the floats and prevents the floats or segments from collapsing.

[0841] A system with low standard modules can be conveniently assembled by gradually installing and connecting individual parts of standard modules or entire standard modules next to each other. The built- up area is increased by adding standard modules. It is advantageous to gradually add standard modules to groups, which correspond in their design to the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil at the installation site. Individual standard modules or groups of standard modules are advantageously connected to each other during construction to prevent them from overturning in strong winds.

[0842] The module array design is resistant to adverse weather conditions and earthquakes, especially with greater usable depth or subsoil load-bearing capacity.

[0843] The load on the base reservoir or subsoil changes alternately by pumping water between the lower and upper reservoirs, as in conventional pumped storage power plants.

[0844] The production of the necessary materials and their transport during the construction of the pumped storage power plant according to the invention are energy -intensive, as with other storage power plants, but given the expected similarly long service life, its carbon footprint is relatively insignificant, especially compared to other types of storage power plants, such as electrochemical ones, which have a much shorter service life.

[0845] The pumped storage power plant according to the invention shows a comprehensive improvement in parameters and other useful properties compared to existing pumped storage power plants.

[0846] The use of pumped storage power plants according to the invention makes it possible to solve fundamental problems in the energy sector: multiply the amount of stored electrical energy compared to the current state, by connecting the required number of energy units, promptly balance the disparities between electricity production from nuclear power plants and fossil fuel power plants, variable consumption in industry, transport and services, and highly irregular production from renewable sources, compensate for the power factor in the electricity grid by using rotating machines as power units, reduce the costs of addressing imbalances in the electricity grid by limiting the uneconomical operation of peak sources and reducing the demands on electricity production regulation in existing power plants, increase energy efficiency in the accumulation of electrical energy by utilising waste heat, streamline or reduce massive long-distance electricity transmission, including between countries, significantly expand and reduce the cost of electricity generation in wind and photovoltaic power plants, which are highly unstable in terms of output, reduce energy production in fossil fuel power plants, especially gas, or in nuclear power plants, significantly contribute to improving the environment, increase electrification in industry, transport and services, develop electric mobility, increase the share of electricity in heating, either directly or, in particular, for the operation of heat pumps, be a significant source of low-potential heat for heat pumps, involve battery storage more extensively by compensating for power factor, increase energy self-sufficiency and security for large and small territorial units within states and for their communities.

[0847] The construction of new pumped storage power plants and the associated increase in the share of renewable sources in the energy sector can be a new stimulus for the development of industry, transportand services, reducing unemployment and raising the standard of living of the population.Industrial applicability of the invention

[0848] The pumped storage power plant according to the invention has the potential for widespread use: it is based on a proven simple principle of water pumping, which is an important prerequisite for its reliability, it makes maximum use of the strength properties and corrosion resistance of the construction material, its modular design simplifies production and assembly, the combination of standard modules maintains stability against overturning even in very strong winds, it can be built with high capacity and performance according to the needs of the electrical network, enables long-term energy storage without loss of capacity, it has very good energy efficiency when pumping water, fluid overpressure in the transfer unit fluctuates by no more than a few percent during the operating cycle, it can be started and stopped with high responsiveness, it can be built with a wide range of capacities and outputs according to the needs of the area, so that a short power line is sufficient for connection to the electrical grid, design, especially with stationary module arrays and closed water circulation, can serve as a heat storage reservoir and allows the use of waste heat from pumping, waste heat generated during pumping can be used to heat homes or industrial and recreational buildings in nearby towns, or even for secondary electricity generation,The upper platform and side walls of the pumped storage power plant can be used to install solar and / or wind power plants. it can be manufactured using common, environmentally friendly and fully recyclable materials, in particular steel, with a long service life of tens to hundreds of thousands of cycles, tens to hundreds of years, during development and construction, it is possible to draw on experience gained in the construction of ships, energy facilities and high-rise buildings, it makes very efficient use of the area and load-bearing capacity of the land on which it is built, the floating embodiment makes effective use of the area and depth of the base reservoir, allows high discharge heights to be achieved even in flat terrain, it is safe even at great heights, so it can be arranged near populated areas, does not require the occupation or flooding of large areas of valuable land in built-up areas or protected natural areas, the stationary embodiment can also use mountain peaks or slopes without major terrain modifications for upper module arrays, for lower module arrays, it allows very efficient use of land from former industrial sites, it can make very efficient use not only of marine areas, but also of freshwater lakes created by flooding of mined surface mines and natural lakes, such as glacial lakes, there are many suitable locations for the construction of module arrays with height differences of hundreds of metres, there is still the possibility of using part of the lake for recreational purposes, the operation of pumped storage power plants is environmentally friendly and does not produce harmful waste,Pumping water does not pose a threat to biological life in the lakes. by dividing the pumped water into individual standard modules, the risk of flooding the surrounding area in the event of damage to a standard module is minimised, the modular system is highly resistant to earthquakes and adverse weather conditions, the reservoirs of the pumped storage power plant can also serve as water reservoirs for emergency situations,The pumped storage power plant has relatively low investment and operating costs. the investment and operating costs are similar to those of a conventional pumped storage power plant.Brief description of the Drawings

[0849] The invention will be explained in more detail using exemplary embodiments according to the attached drawings:

[0850] Fig. 1 shows a diagram of a single-storey stationary standard module with an insulated support,

[0851] Fig. la shows a diagram of a single-storey stationary standard module with thermal insulation of the support,

[0852] Fig. 2 shows a diagram of a two-storey stationary standard module, which is shown as an element of the lower stationary module array,

[0853] Fig. 3 shows a diagram of a single-storey floating standard module with thermal insulation of the support,

[0854] Fig. 4 shows a diagram of a two-storey floating standard module, which is shown as an element of the upper floating module array,

[0855] Fig. 5 shows a diagram comparing a floating standard module with a single-piece and a three-piece float,

[0856] Fig. 6 shows a diagram of a stationary standard module with a rectification device,

[0857] Fig. 7 shows a diagram of a stationary standard module,

[0858] Fig. 8 shows a diagram of a stationary standard module with an additional module reservoir, which is shown as an element of the upper module array,

[0859] Fig. 9 shows a diagram of a floating standard module with a single-piece float, an upper module reservoir and an additional module reservoir for use in the upper module array,

[0860] Fig. 9a shows a diagram of a stationary standard module with a single-piece float, an upper module reservoir and an additional module reservoir for use in the upper module array,

[0861] Fig. 10 shows a diagram of a floating standard module with a three-part float for use in the upper module array,

[0862] Fig . 10a shows a diagram of a stationary standard module with a three-part float for use in the upper module array,

[0863] Fig. 11 shows a diagram of the floating standard module with a single-piece float used in the upper module array,

[0864] Fig. 12 shows a diagram of the floating standard module with a three-part float used in the upper module array,

[0865] Fig. 13 shows a diagram of various designs of floating standard modules arranged in the lower base reservoir,

[0866] Fig. 14 shows a diagram of a floating standard module arranged in the lower base reservoir,

[0867] Fig. 15 shows a diagram of the operating variants of a stabilisable floating standard module as part of a stabilisable floating module array.

[0868] Fig. 16 shows a diagram of a planar stationary system of interconnected standard modules,

[0869] Fig. 17 shows a diagram of a stationary system of interconnected standard modules on undulating subsoil,

[0870] Fig. 18 shows a diagram of a lower stationary module array with membranes,

[0871] Fig. 19 shows a diagram of a lower stationary module array with membranes,

[0872] Fig. 20 shows a diagram of a lower stationary module array with membranes arranged in the lower base reservoir,

[0873] Fig. 21 shows a diagram of a lower stationary module array with membranes arranged in the base reservoir,

[0874] Fig. 22 shows a diagram of a lower stationary module array with membranes arranged in the base reservoir,

[0875] Fig. 23 shows a diagram of a lower stationary module array with water bags arranged in the base reservoir,

[0876] Fig. 24 shows a diagram of the lower stationary module array with water bags arranged in the lower base reservoir,

[0877] Fig. 25 shows a diagram of a lower stationary module array with water bags arranged in the base reservoir,

[0878] Fig. 26 shows diagrams of a three-level lower stationary module array,

[0879] Fig. 27 shows diagrams of a three-level upper stationary module array with a stationary system of additional module reservoirs with a three-level upper platform,

[0880] Fig. 28 shows a diagram of a three-level upper stationary module array,

[0881] Fig. 29 shows a diagram of a three-level upper stationary module array with an additional stationary array of module reservoirs with a single-level upper platform,

[0882] Fig. 30 shows a diagram of a system of interconnected standard modules in three variants,

[0883] Fig. 31 shows a diagram of variants of module reservoirs connected into a system,

[0884] Fig. 32 shows a diagram of two variants of a stationary array of module reservoirs with different diameters,

[0885] Fig. 33 shows a diagram of two variants of a stationary upper module array with a system of additional module reservoirs with different diameters,

[0886] Fig. 34 shows a diagram of a lower floating module array with membranes,

[0887] Fig. 35 shows a diagram of a lower floating module array with membranes arranged in the lower base reservoir,

[0888] Fig. 36 shows a diagram of a floating module array,

[0889] Fig. 37 shows a diagram of a three-level floating module array,

[0890] Fig. 38 shows a diagram of a single-level upper floating module array with a system of additional module reservoirs,

[0891] Fig. 39 shows a diagram of an upper floating module array,

[0892] Fig. 40 shows diagrams of two variants of a floating module array with different diameters,

[0893] Fig. 41 shows a diagram of pumped storage power plants with a lower stationary module array and an upper stationary module array,

[0894] Fig. 42 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower stationary module array and an upper stationary module array,

[0895] Fig. 43 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower single-level floating module array and an upper single-level floating module array,

[0896] Fig. 44 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower single-level submerged stationary module array and an upper single-level floating module array.

[0897] Fig. 45 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a single-level lower floating module array and an upper stationary module array,

[0898] Fig. 46 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower stationary module array with water bags arranged in the base reservoir and an upper stationary module array,

[0899] Fig. 47 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower three-level floating module array and an upper three-level floating module array,

[0900] Fig. 48 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower single-level floating module array and an upper single-level floating module array,

[0901] Fig. 49 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower stationary module array and an upper stationary module array,

[0902] Fig. 50 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower stationary module array and an upper stationary module array.

[0903] Fig. 51 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower stationary module array and an upper stationary module array.

[0904] Fig. 52 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower stationary module array, an upper natural reservoir and an additional stationary module array.

[0905] Fig. 53 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower natural reservoir, an upper natural reservoir and an additional stationary module array.

[0906] Fig. 54 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a submerged stationary module array, an upper floating module array and an additional floating module array,

[0907] Fig. 55 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with an upper stationary module array and a lower natural reservoir.

[0908] Fig. 56 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with an upper stationary module array and a lower three -level floating module array.

[0909] Fig. 57 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with an upper stationary module array and a lower single-level floating module array,

[0910] Fig. 58 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with an upper stationary module array and a lower single-level floating module array,

[0911] Fig. 59 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower stationary module array arranged in the base reservoir and an upper stationary module array.

[0912] Fig. 60 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower stationary module array and an upper stationary module array,

[0913] Fig. 61 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower stationary module array and two upper stationary module arrays,

[0914] Fig. 62 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower single-level floating module array and an upper single-level floating module array,

[0915] Fig. 63 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower single-level floating module array and an upper single-level floating module array,

[0916] Fig. 64 shows a diagram of the connection of the circulation pipe to the transfer pipe,

[0917] Fig. 65 shows a diagram of a module reservoir arranged on a support with a sliding pad in two variants,

[0918] Fig. 66 shows a diagram of an upper stationary array of module reservoirs with a device for removing heat from the pumped water and a device for supplying heat to the pumped water,

[0919] Fig. 67 shows a diagram of an upper stationary module array with a device for removing waste heat from the pumped water,

[0920] Fig. 68 shows a diagram of an upper stationary module array with a device for removing waste heat from the pumped water,

[0921] Fig. 69 shows a diagram of the lower stationary module array with a device for removing heat from the pumped water and a device for supplying heat to the pumped water,

[0922] Fig. 70 shows a diagram of the lower stationary module array with a device for removing heat from the pumped water and a device for supplying heat to the pumped water.

[0923] Fig. 71 shows a diagram of a lower stationary module array with a device for removing heat from the pumped water and a device for supplying heat to the pumped water,

[0924] Fig. 72 shows a diagram of a lower stationary array of module reservoirs with a device for supplying heat to the pumped water and a device for removing heat from the pumped water,

[0925] Fig. 73 shows a diagram of the upper stationary module array with supports, thermal insulation and a gas-tight shell,

[0926] Fig. 74 shows a diagram of a lower stationary array of module reservoirs with a device for supplying heat to the heat transfer medium,

[0927] Fig. 75 shows a diagram of the upper stationary module array with thermal insulation and a gastight shell,

[0928] Fig. 76 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower reservoir and an upper reservoir,

[0929] Fig. 77 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower reservoir and an upper reservoir,

[0930] Fig. 78 shows a diagram of a pumped storage power plant with a lower reservoir and an upper reservoir,

[0931] Fig. 79 shows a diagram of vacuum thermal insulation fitted to a module array,

[0932] Fig. 80 shows a diagram of vacuum thermal insulation fitted to a set of module reservoirs,

[0933] Fig. 81 shows a diagram of vacuum thermal insulation fitted to an array of module reservoirs,

[0934] Fig. 82 shows a diagram of the vacuum thermal insulation provided for a set of module reservoirs,

[0935] Fig. 83 shows a diagram of the vacuum thermal insulation provided for the module array,

[0936] Fig. 84 shows a diagram of vacuum thermal insulation used in a modular system,

[0937] Fig. 85 shows a diagram of the vacuum thermal insulation provided for the module array,

[0938] Fig. 86 shows a diagram of the vacuum thermal insulation fastened to the supporting structure,

[0939] Fig. 87 shows a diagram of the fastening of vacuum thermal insulation to the supporting structure,

[0940] Fig. 88 shows a diagram of a section of thermal insulation,

[0941] Fig. 89 shows a diagram of channels created in the insulation material blocks,

[0942] Fig. 90 shows a diagram of a network of channels in an assembly of insulation material blocks,

[0943] Fig. 91 shows a diagram of an overpressure Pelton turbine,

[0944] Fig. 92 shows a diagram of an overpressure Pelton turbine with automatic overpressure control,

[0945] Fig. 93 shows a diagram of an overpressure Pelton turbine and the lower reservoir of a pumped storage power plant,

[0946] Fig. 94 shows a diagram of an overpressure Pelton turbine and the lower reservoir of a pumped storage power plant.

[0947] Fig. 95 shows a diagram of a crossflow pressure turbine,

[0948] Fig. 96 shows a diagram of a pressure turbine with crossflow and lower reservoirs of a pumped storage power plant in reverse configuration,

[0949] Fig. 97 shows a diagram of a crossflow pressure turbine and the lower reservoir of a pumped storage power plant,

[0950] Fig. 98 shows a diagram of a crossflow pressure turbine and the lower reservoir of a pumped storage power plant.Examples

[0951] Fig. 1 shows a diagram of a single-stage stationary standard module with an insulating support.

[0952] A stationary standard module 19 is arranged on a base 22 formed in the subsoil 7.

[0953] This stationary standard module 19 has two basic parts: base 22, on which support 24 is arranged, support 24, on which the module reservoir 25a is arranged.

[0954] The module reservoir 25a with a height N is filled with water. The support 24 is made of heatinsulating material and is strong enough to support the module reservoir 25a with water. The load from the module reservoir 25a filled with water is evenly transferred to the support 24 and through it to the base 22. The floor is formed by the support 24 and the supported module reservoir 25a.

[0955] The base 22 is mainly loaded by the vertical weight of the supported parts. The upper level of the base 22 is above ground level 8 to allow for good drainage of the stationary standard module 19 in the event of a failure of the module reservoir 25a or the transfer pipe.

[0956] Fig. la shows a diagram of a single-storey stationary standard module with thermal insulation of the support.

[0957] A stationary standard module 19 is arranged on the base 22 created in the subsoil 7.

[0958] This stationary standard module 19 has two basic parts: base 22, on which the support 24 is arranged, support 24, on which the module reservoir 25a is arranged.

[0959] The support 24 is provided with thermal insulation 61 in the lower part or this lower part is made of a thermally insulating material which has sufficient strength to support the module reservoir 25a with water and the upper part of the support 24.

[0960] The support 24 has a height M sufficient for the placement of a transfer pipe with shut-off valves and a working platform for walking by operating and maintenance personnel. The module reservoir 25a with a height N is filled with water. The floor is formed by the support 24 and the supported module reservoir 25a.

[0961] The base 22 is mainly loaded by the vertical weight of the supported parts. The upper level of the base 22 is created above ground level 8 to allow for good drainage of the stationary standard module 19 in the event of a failure of the module reservoir 25a or the transfer pipe.

[0962] Fig. 2 shows a diagram of a two-storey stationary standard module, which is shown as an element of the lower stationary module array.

[0963] A stationary standard module 19 is built on the base 22, which consists of two floors one above the other, each floor consisting of a support 24 and a supported lower module reservoir 26a, where the height of the lower module reservoir 26a is approximately half the height of the module reservoir 25 of the singlestorey stationary standard module 19 according to Fig. 1. Due to the half hydrostatic pressure of the water in the lower module reservoirs 26a, the wall thickness of these lower module reservoirs 26a can be approximately half that of the module reservoir 25a in Fig. 1. The water transfer pipe 39 from the lower module reservoirs 26a leads to the transfer unit and to the upper module array.

[0964] A branch from the vertical transfer pipe 39 equipped with a shut-off valve 44 is connected to the bottom of each lower module reservoir 26a. When fdling or emptying a specific lower module reservoir26a, the shut-off valve 44 in the corresponding branch is opened and, once pumping is complete, the shutoff valve 44 is closed again. This ensures that the hydrostatic pressure of the water from the lower module reservoirs 26a arranged above is not transferred to the lower module reservoir 26a arranged below.

[0965] A branch of the vent pipe 43 is connected to the upper bottom of each lower module reservoir 26a, which leads to the upper bottoms of the module reservoirs in the upper module array.

[0966] Fig. 3 shows a diagram of a single storey floating standard module with thermal insulation of the support.

[0967] The floating standard module 20 has three basic parts: a float 23, which serves to support the support 24 with the module reservoir 25a and is submerged in the water in the base reservoir 3, thereby creating the necessary buoyancy; it is mainly loaded by the external water pressure and the vertical weight of the supported parts, support 24, which serves to carry the module reservoir 25a, is built on the float 23 and is mainly loaded by the vertical weight of the parts it carries, i.e. mainly by the module reservoir 25a,The module reservoir 25a, which serves to carry the water fdling, is mainly loaded by internal water pressure.

[0968] The module reservoir 25a, support 24 and float 23 are made of thin sheet metal and their horizontal cross-section is circular. The support 24 has a wall thickness t and is fitted with thermal insulation 61 in the lower part.

[0969] The module reservoir 25a with height N is filled with water. The support 24 has a height M sufficient for the placement of a transfer pipe with shut-off valves and a working platform for operators and maintenance personnel. The float 23 is submerged to a depth H and has a total height P that is greater than the depth H to ensure that the float 23 cannot sink below the water level 35 in the base reservoir 3 under the action of accidental static and dynamic loads and to allow the space of the floating standard module 20 to be drained easily in the event of a failure of the module reservoir 25a or the transfer pipe.

[0970] Fig. 4 shows a diagram of a two-storey floating standard module, which is shown as an element of the upper floating module array.

[0971] The floating standard module 20 comprises a float 23, which floats in the water in the upper base reservoir 5 so that the upper edge of the float 23 protrudes above the water level 35 in the upper base reservoir 5. two decks are arranged one above the other on the float 23, each deck consisting of a support 24 with an upper module reservoir 27a. A water transfer pipe 39 leads from the upper module reservoirs 27a to the transfer unit and to the lower reservoir.

[0972] A branch from the vertical transfer pipe 39 equipped with a shut-off valve 44 is connected to the bottom of each upper module reservoir 27a. When fdling or emptying a specific upper module reservoir 27a, the shut-off valve 44 in the corresponding branch of the transfer pipe 39 opens and closes again after transfer is complete. This ensures that the hydrostatic pressure of the water from the upper module reservoir 27a arranged above is not transferred to the lower module reservoir 27a arranged below.

[0973] A branch of the vent pipe 43 is connected to the upper bottom of each upper module reservoir 27a, which leads to the upper bottoms of the lower module reservoirs in the lower module array.

[0974] Fig. 5 shows a comparison of a floating standard module with a single-piece and a three-piece float.

[0975] Both floating standard modules 20 float in the base reservoir 3, have the same weight and therefore the same depth of immersion of the float 23.

[0976] Fig. 5a shows a diagram of a floating standard module 20 with a single-piece float 23.

[0977] The floating standard module 20 comprises the following parts, which are made of thin sheet metal and have a circular horizontal cross-section: single-piece float 23, support 24 is arranged on the float 23, module reservoir 25a is arranged on support 24.

[0978] Fig. 5b shows a diagram of a floating standard module 20 with a three-piece float 23.

[0979] The floating standard module 20 comprises the following parts, which are made of thin sheet metal and have a circular horizontal cross-section: three-part float 23, which comprises sections 23a, 23b, 23c (segments), support 24 is arranged on float 23, and a module reservoir 25a is arranged on the support 24.

[0980] The upper bottom 30a of the lower section 23a acts as a pressure barrier between the lower section23a and the middle section 23b, and the upper bottom 30b of the middle section 23b acts as a pressure barrier between the middle section 23b and the upper section 23c.

[0981] The individual sections 23a, 23b, 23c of the float 23 are fdled with air at an overpressure equal to the maximum hydrostatic pressure of the water to which the section 23a, 23b, 23c of the float 23 when fully submerged in the base reservoir 3, i.e. the sections 23a, 23b, 23c of the float 23 arranged deeper are filled with air at a higher overpressure.

[0982] As a result of better equalisation of the internal gas overpressure with the external hydrostatic overpressure of the water, this three-part float 23 can therefore have thinner walls and thus a lower weight than a single-piece float 23 of the same height, i.e. with the same buoyancy. The module reservoir 25a can therefore be higher than the module reservoir 25a of the floating standard module 20 with a single-piece float 23 according to Fig. 5a. When optimising material utilisation, the weight of the float 23 must also be taken into account.

[0983] Fig. 6 shows a diagram of a stationary standard module with a rectification device.

[0984] A base 22 is built into the subsoil 7, on which a support 24 is arranged, and a module reservoir 25a is arranged on the support 24. The module reservoir 25a is equipped with a cover 60 on the side and top.

[0985] In the lower part of the support 24, a rectification space 53 is created for rectifying the position of the stationary standard module 19 on the base 22, in such a way that the lower part of the support 24 under the module reservoir 25a is provided with a horizontal reinforcement and mounting holes in the walls of the support 24.

[0986] Pneumatic lifting bags 54 are inserted through the mounting holes into the rectification space 53 between the horizontal reinforcement and the base 22, and the stationary standard module 19 can be lifted by filling the lifting bags 54 with air. A pad with a thickness determined by the measurement results can be inserted into the gap between the stationary standard module 19 and the base 22, and by deflating the lifting bags 54, the stationary standard module 19 can be lowered back onto the base 22 with the pad.

[0987] Fig. 7 shows a diagram of the stationary standard module.

[0988] The base 22 is built into the subsoil 7, on which the raised support 24 is arranged, and the module reservoir 25a is arranged on the support 24.

[0989] The diagram in Fig. 7a shows the stationary standard module 19 with an empty module reservoir 25a. The diagram in Fig. 7b shows the stationary standard module 19 with a full module reservoir 25a.

[0990] In the lower part of the support 24, a rectification space 53 is created for rectifying the position of the stationary standard module 19 on the base 22, in such a way that the lower part of the support 24 is provided with a horizontal reinforcement and mounting holes in the walls of the support 24.

[0991] Pneumatic lifting bags 54 are inserted through the mounting holes into the adjustment space 53 between the horizontal reinforcement and the base 22, and the stationary standard module 19 can be lifted by filling the lifting bags 54 with air. A pad with a thickness determined by the measurement results can be inserted into the gap between the stationary standard module 19 and the base 22, and by deflating the lifting bags 54, the stationary standard module 19 can be lowered back onto the base 22 with the pad.

[0992] Fig. 8 shows a diagram of a stationary standard module with an additional module reservoir, which is shown as an element of the upper module array.

[0993] A base 22 is built into the subsoil 7, on which a raised support 24 is arranged, on which the upper module reservoir 27a is arranged, and an additional module reservoir 28a is arranged in the lower part of the support 24. The support 24 thus serves to support both the upper module reservoir 27a and the additional module reservoir 28a.

[0994] In the diagram shown in Fig. 8a, water is pumped into the lower reservoir of the pumped storage power plant, which is why the upper module reservoir 27a and the additional module reservoir 28a are empty.

[0995] In the diagram in Fig. 8b, water from the lower reservoir of the pumped storage power plant is pumped into the additional module reservoir 28a.

[0996] In the diagram in Fig. 8c, water is pumped from the additional module reservoir 28a to the upper module reservoir 27a.

[0997] In the lower part of the support 24, a rectification space 53 is created for rectifying the position of the stationary standard module 19 on the base 22.

[0998] Fig. 9 shows a diagram of a floating standard module with a single-piece float, an upper module reservoir and an additional module reservoir for use in the upper module array.

[0999] The floating standard module 20 is arranged in the water in the upper base reservoir 5.

[1000] The floating standard module 20 comprises the following parts: single-piece float 23, support 24 is arranged on float 23, the upper module reservoir 27a is arranged on the support 24, an additional module reservoir 28a is formed inside the lower part of the support 24.

[1001] The above parts are made of thin sheet metal and their horizontal cross-section is circular. The support 24 has a wall thickness t.

[1002] The float 23 can be filled with gas at an overpressure equal to the maximum hydrostatic pressure of the water to which the float 23 will be exposed when fully submerged in the upper base reservoir 5.

[1003] Fig. 9a shows a diagram of a stationary standard module with a single-piece float, an upper module reservoir and an additional module reservoir for use in the upper module array.

[1004] The stationary standard module 19 is arranged on a base 22 formed at the bottom of the upper base reservoir 5, i.e. the solid subsoil 7, and comprises the following parts: support 24 arranged on the base 22, a single-piece float 23, formed in the space under the support 24, above the float 23, an additional module reservoir 28a is formed inside the support 24, an upper module reservoir 27a is arranged on top of the support 24.

[1005] The support 24 is provided with a curved bottom at the lower end, through which the weight of the entire stationary standard module 19 is evenly transferred to the base 22, thus optimally utilising the loadbearing capacity of the subsoil 7 under the stationary standard module 19. The part of the support 24 above the bottom and below the float 23 is flooded with water from the upper base reservoir 5, so that the walls of the support 24 are not stressed by external water pressure.

[1006] The load capacity of the stationary standard module 19 is therefore based on the buoyancy of the float 23, as in the case of the floating standard module 20 in Fig. 9 but is significantly increased by the loadbearing capacity of the subsoil 7 and, consequently, the base 22.

[1007] The height of reservoirs 27a and 28a can therefore be significantly greater than that of the floating standard module 20 shown in Fig. 9.

[1008] The parts shown are made of thin sheet metal and their horizontal cross-section is circular. The support 24 has a wall thickness t.

[1009] The float 23 can be filled with gas at an overpressure equal to the maximum hydrostatic pressure of the water to which the float 23 will be exposed when fully submerged in the upper base reservoir 5.

[1010] Fig. 10 shows a diagram of a floating standard module with a three-part float for use in the upper module array.[ion] The floating standard module 20 is arranged in water in the upper base reservoir 5.

[1012] The floating standard module 20 comprises the following parts: a three-part float 23, which comprises a lower section 23a, a middle section 23b connected to it, and an upper section 23c connected to it, a support 24 is arranged on the float 23, an upper module reservoir 27a is arranged on the support 24, an additional module reservoir 28a is formed inside the lower part of the support 24.

[1013] The above-mentioned parts of the floating standard module 20 are made of thin sheet metal and their horizontal cross-section is circular. The support 24 has a wall thickness t.

[1014] The individual sections 23a, 23b, 23c of the float 23 can be filled with gas at an overpressure equal to the maximum hydrostatic pressure of the water to which the respective section 23a, 23b, 23c of the float 23 when fully submerged in the base reservoir, i.e. the sections 23a, 23b, 23c of the float 23 arranged deeper are filled with gas at a higher overpressure.

[1015] This three-part float 23 therefore has a lower weight and the support 24 can therefore be higher than that of the standard floating module 20 in Fig. 9, even with the same height and therefore buoyancy of float 23.

[1016] Fig. 10a shows a diagram of a stationary standard module with a three-part float used in the upper module array.

[1017] The stationary standard module 19 is arranged on a base 22 formed at the bottom of the upper basereservoir 5, i.e. the solid subsoil 7, and comprises the following parts: support 24 arranged on the base 22, three-part float 23, formed in the space under support 24, comprising a lower section 23a, followed by a middle section 23b and an upper section 23c, above the float 23, an additional module reservoir 28a is formed inside the support 24, an upper module reservoir 27a is arranged at the top of the support 24.

[1018] The support 24 is provided with a curved bottom at the lower end, through which the weight of the entire stationary standard module 19 is evenly transferred to the base 22, thus optimally utilising the loadbearing capacity of the subsoil 7 under the stationary standard module 19. The part of the support 24 above the bottom and below the float 23 is flooded with water from the upper base reservoir 5, so that the walls of the support 24 are not stressed by external water pressure.

[1019] The load-bearing capacity of the stationary standard module 19 is therefore based on the buoyancy of the float 23, as in the floating standard module 20 in Fig. 10 but is significantly increased by the loadbearing capacity of the subsoil 7 and, consequently, the base 22.

[1020] The height of reservoirs 27a and 28a can therefore be significantly greater than that of the floating standard module 20 shown in Fig. 10.

[1021] The parts of the conventional floating module 20 shown are made of thin sheet metal and their horizontal cross-section is circular. The support 24 has a wall thickness t.

[1022] The individual sections 23a, 23b, 23c of the float 23 can be filled with gas at an overpressure equal to the maximum hydrostatic pressure of the water to which the given section 23a, 23b, 23c of the float 23 when fully submerged in the upper base reservoir 5, i.e. the sections 23a, 23b, 23c of the float 23 arranged deeper are filled with gas at a higher overpressure.

[1023] This three-part float 23 therefore has a lower weight and the support 24 can therefore be higher than that of the standard floating module 20 in Fig. 9, even with the same height and therefore buoyancy of float 23.

[1024] Fig. 11 shows a diagram of the floating standard module with a single-piece float used in the upper module array.

[1025] The floating standard module 20 floats in the water in the upper base reservoir 5 and comprises a single-piece float 23, a support 24 and an upper module reservoir 27a, which are made of thin sheet metal and have a circular horizontal cross-section. The support 24 has a wall thickness t.

[1026] Fig. Ila shows the floating standard module 20 in the upper operating position with an empty upper module reservoir 27a, while Fig. 1 lb shows the floating standard module 20 in the lower operating position with a full upper module reservoir 27a. The water level N in the upper module reservoir 27a is equal to the operating stroke N, i.e. the height difference between the upper and lower operating positions of the floating standard module 20. The height difference V between the water level 37 in the upper module reservoir 27a and the water level 35 in the upper base reservoir 5 therefore remains the same in both operating positions of the floating standard module 20.

[1027] Fig. 12 shows a diagram of the floating standard module with a three-part float used in the upper module array.

[1028] The floating standard module 20 floats in the upper base reservoir 5 and comprises a three-part float 23, a support 24 and an upper module reservoir 27a. The float 23 comprises sections 23a, 23b, 23c (segments).

[1029] Fig. 12a shows the floating standard module 20 in the upper operating position with an empty upper module reservoir 27a, while Fig. 12b shows the floating standard module 20 in the lower operating position with a full upper module reservoir 27a.

[1030] The water height N in the upper module reservoir 27a is equal to the operating stroke N, i.e. the height difference between the upper and lower operating positions of the floating standard module 20. The height difference V between the water level 37 in the upper module reservoir 27a and the water level 35 in the upper base reservoir 5 therefore remains the same in both operating positions of the floating standard module 20.

[1031] Fig. 13 shows a diagram of different designs of floating standard modules arranged in the lower base reservoir.

[1032] The floating standard module 20 floats on the water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4.

[1033] In Figs. 13.1, 13.2 and 13.3, the floating standard module 20 comprises a float 23 and a lower module reservoir 26a, while in Fig. 13.4, the floating standard module 20 comprises only the lower module reservoir 26a.

[1034] The float 23 is arranged under the lower module reservoir 26a, supports the lower module reservoir 26a and the corresponding amount of water, and can have different volumes and thus different load capacities.

[1035] A vent pipe 43 is arranged in the upper bottom of the lower module reservoir 26a, which connects the air space at water level 36 in the lower module reservoir 26a with the outside atmosphere.

[1036] Fig. 13.1 shows a diagram of a floating standard module 20 in which, when the lower module reservoir 26a is empty, the float 23 is positioned with its upper edge at the water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4. The water level 36 in the full lower module reservoir 26a in Fig. 13.1b is at the level of the water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4.

[1037] Fig. 13.2 shows a diagram of a floating standard module 20 in which, when the lower module reservoir 26a in Fig. 13.2a is empty, the float 23 is positioned with its upper edge above the water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4. The water level 36 in the full lower module reservoir 26a in Fig. 13.2b also exceeds the water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4.

[1038] Fig. 13.3 shows a diagram of a floating standard module 20 in which, when the lower module reservoir 26a in Fig. 13.3a is empty, the float 23 is positioned with its upper edge below the water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4. The water level 36 in the full lower module reservoir 26a in Fig. 13.3b is also below the water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4.

[1039] Fig. 13.4 shows a diagram of a floating standard module 20 consisting of a self-supporting floating lower module reservoir 26a, which also serves as a float.

[1040] The self-supporting floating lower module reservoir 26a floats on the water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4.

[1041] Fig. 13.4a shows the bottom of the empty self-supporting floating lower module reservoir 26a below the water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4, Fig. 13.4b shows the water level 36 in the full self- supporting floating lower module reservoir 26a, which is also below the water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4.

[1042] The self-supporting floating lower module reservoir 26a acts as a float in its entire submerged part and as a reservoir in the part that is filled with water.

[1043] Fig. 14 shows a diagram of a floating standard module arranged in the lower base reservoir.

[1044] The floating standard module comprises a float 23, on which the lower module reservoir 26a is arranged.

[1045] The water transfer unit 45 is arranged outside the floating standard module in a separate floating power module 21 in the lower base reservoir 4 and is connected to the lower floating reservoir 26a by means of a fixed transfer pipe 40 and a flexible transfer pipe 41. The transfer unit 45 is connected on its discharge side to the upper reservoir via a fixed transfer pipe 40.

[1046] Fig. 14a shows the floating standard module in the upper operating position, with its lower module reservoir 26a empty. Fig. 14b shows the floating standard module in the lower operating position, with its lower module reservoir 26a filled with water transferred from the upper reservoir.

[1047] Fig. 15 shows a diagram of the operating variants of a stabilisable floating standard module as part of a stabilisable floating module array.

[1048] The stabilisable floating standard module 20 is arranged in the base reservoir 3, consists of a self- supporting floating module reservoir 25a, is equipped with stops 49 and is guided by a guide frame 50. The self-supporting floating module reservoir 25a is connected to a transfer pipe 39, which connects it to the power unit and to the lower or upper reservoir in the pumped storage power plant.

[1049] Between the positions shown in Fig. 15a and Fig. 15b, the stabilisable floating standard module 20 is secured by stops 49 and operated as a stationary standard module. In the position shown in Fig. 15a, it is subjected to internal water pressure corresponding to the difference between the water level in the module reservoir 25a and the water level 35 in the base reservoir 3.

[1050] After the module reservoir 25a is filled with water to the extent that the buoyancy and weight of the stabilisable floating standard module 20 are balanced, the stops 49 can be inserted into the space of the module reservoir 25a and the stabilisable floating standard module 20 can move freely in the vertical direction.

[1051] Between the positions shown in Fig. 15c and Fig. 15d, the stabilisable floating standard module 20 is operated as a floating standard module 20 ( ). By draining water from the module reservoir 25a, the floating standard module 20 emerges, and by filling the module reservoir 25a, the floating standard module 20 submerges. During operation, the walls of the floating standard module 20 are permanently loaded by external overpressure corresponding to the drop in the water level in the module reservoir 25a below the water level 35 in the base reservoir 3.

[1052] After stabilisation by stops 49 at the level shown in Fig. 15d, the stabilisable floating standard module 20 can be operated as a stationary standard module. The module reservoir 25a can be filled above the water level 35 in the base reservoir 3 up to the height shown in Fig. 15e.

[1053] Fig. 16 shows a diagram of a flat stationary system of interconnected standard modules.

[1054] Section A-A shows a stationary system of 10 interconnected modules built on a flat subsoil 7 with uniform load-bearing capacity.

[1055] The stationary system of 10 modules comprises stationary standard modules 19, each of which comprises a module reservoir 25a, which is supported by a support 24. The support 24 provides space for transfer pipes and service platforms.

[1056] The supporting element for the stationary standard module 19 is the base 22, which is built into the subsoil 7.

[1057] The B-B section at the bottom of the figure is made in the area of the supports 24 and shows the interlocking of the stationary standard modules 19, the spacing of which is smaller than their diameter.

[1058] The module reservoirs 25a and energy units can be connected in any combination in the stationary system of 10 modules via transfer pipes, as all stationary standard modules 19 are at the same height and the height of the module reservoirs 25a is the same for all stationary standard modules 19.

[1059] Fig. 17 shows a diagram of a stationary system of interconnected standard modules on undulating subsoil.

[1060] The diagram is essentially the same as in Fig. 16, differing only in section A-A, which shows that the stationary system of 10 modules is built on bases 22 created in the undulating subsoil 7. In this stationary system of 10 modules, only groups of module reservoirs 25a with the same height and the same height position of the stationary standard modules 19 can be connected to the energy units via a transfer pipe, i.e. along contour lines, so that each transfer unit is assigned module reservoirs 25a with the same hydrostatic discharge height.

[1061] Fig. 18 shows a diagram of the lower stationary module array with membranes.

[1062] The lower stationary system of 11 modules is built on a solid subsoil 7, the supports 24 are anchored directly in the subsoil 7 without the need for bases.

[1063] The stationary standard modules 19 comprise supports 24 on which the lower module reservoirs 26a are arranged, which are equipped with diaphragms 25b fixed at half the height of the lower module reservoirs 26a.

[1064] The transfer pump unit 45 is connected to the transfer pipe 39, which leads to the lower bottoms of the lower module reservoirs 26a of the lower stationary system of 11 modules and is also connected to the transfer pipe 39, which leads upwards to the upper reservoir; It is arranged below the bottom level of the lower module reservoirs 26a to prevent cavitation.

[1065] Fig. 18a shows the empty lower module reservoirs 26a. The membranes 25b are adjacent to the inner walls in the lower half of the lower module reservoirs 26a. In the lower module reservoirs 26a above the membranes 25b, air is sucked in from the atmosphere through ventilation openings in the upper bottoms of the lower module reservoirs 26a.

[1066] Fig. 18b shows the lower module reservoirs 26a filled with water from the transfer pipe 39 from the upper reservoir. The membranes 25b are adjacent to the inner walls in the upper half of the lower module reservoirs 26a, and the air is forced out of the space above the membranes 25b into the atmosphere.

[1067] The water is in direct contact only with the lower half of the lower module reservoirs 26a, so that the upper half of the lower module reservoirs 26a can be made of a cheaper material than the lower half of the lower module reservoirs 26a.

[1068] Fig. 19 shows a diagram of the lower stationary module array with membranes.

[1069] Stationary standard modules 19 comprise supports 24 on which lower module reservoirs 26a are arranged, which are equipped with membranes 25b fixed to the bottom of the lower module reservoirs 26a.

[1070] The lower stationary system of 11 modules is built on a solid subsoil 7, and the supports 24 areanchored directly in the subsoil 7 without the need for bases.

[1071] The transfer pump unit 45 is connected to the transfer pipe 39, which leads to the lower bottoms of the lower module reservoirs 26a and is also connected to the transfer pipe 39, which leads upwards to the upper reservoir; It is arranged below the bottom level of the lower module reservoirs 26a to prevent cavitation.

[1072] Fig. 19a shows the empty lower module reservoirs 26a. The membranes 25b are adjacent to the lower bottom of the inner walls in the lower module reservoirs 26a. The entire volume of the lower module reservoirs 26a above the membranes 25b is fdled with air drawn in from the atmosphere through ventilation openings in the upper bottoms of the lower module reservoirs 26a.

[1073] Fig. 19b shows the lower module reservoirs 26a filled with water via the transfer pipe 39 from the upper reservoir. The membranes 25b are adjacent to the inner side walls and the upper bottom of the lower module reservoirs 26a, and the air is forced out of the space above the membranes 25b into the atmosphere.

[1074] The water is in direct contact only with the lower bottoms of the lower module reservoirs 26a, so that the cylindrical walls and upper bottoms of the lower module reservoirs 26a can be made of cheaper material than the lower bottoms of the lower module reservoirs 26a.

[1075] Fig. 20 shows a diagram of the lower stationary module array with membranes arranged in the lower base reservoir.

[1076] The lower stationary system of 11 modules is built on the bottom of the lower base reservoir 4 on a solid subsoil 7.

[1077] The stationary standard modules 19 comprise supports 24 on which the lower module reservoirs 26a are arranged, which are equipped with membranes 25b fixed at half the height of the lower module reservoirs 26a. In the upper half of the lower module reservoirs 26a, flow openings are formed in their walls.

[1078] The supports 24 are anchored directly in the subsoil 7 without the need for bases. The upper edge of the lower stationary system of 11 modules is arranged at a sufficient depth below the water level 35 in the full lower base reservoir 4.

[1079] The transfer pump unit 45 is connected to the transfer pipe 39, which leads to the lower bottoms of the lower module reservoirs 26 and the lower stationary system of 11 modules, and is also connected to the transfer pipe 39, which leads upwards to the upper reservoir; it is arranged in a pit excavated next to the lower base reservoir 4 and is arranged below the lowest water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4 to prevent cavitation.

[1080] Fig. 20a shows the lower module reservoirs 26a from which the pumped water is drained. The membranes 25b are adjacent to the inner walls in the lower half of the lower module reservoirs 26a, in the lower part of the lower module reservoirs 26a above the membranes 25b there is water that has flowed in from the lower base reservoir 4 and above it there is air sucked in from the atmosphere through ventilation openings in the upper half of the lower module reservoirs 26a. The water level in the lower module reservoirs 26a of the lower stationary system of 11 modules and the water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4 are equalised, so that the walls of the lower module reservoirs 26a in the lower stationary system of 11 modules are not stressed by internal or external overpressure and can therefore be made of thin material.

[1081] Fig. 20b shows the lower module reservoirs 26a filled with water pumped from the upper reservoir via the transfer pipe 39. The membranes 25b are adjacent to the inner walls in the upper half of the lower module reservoirs 26a, the water is forced out of the space above the membranes 25b into the lower base reservoir 4 and the air is forced out into the atmosphere. The values of the internal and external water pressure acting on the walls of the lower module reservoirs 26a are also balanced in this situation.

[1082] Fig. 21 shows a diagram of the lower stationary module array with membranes arranged in the base reservoir.

[1083] Stationary standard modules 19 comprise supports 24 on which lower module reservoirs 26a are arranged, which are equipped with membranes 25b fixed at half the height of the lower module reservoirs 26a. In the upper half of the lower module reservoirs 26a, flow openings are formed in their walls.

[1084] The lower stationary system of 11 modules is built on the bottom of the lower base reservoir 4 on a solid subsoil 7, the supports 24 are anchored directly in the subsoil 7 without the need for bases. The upper edge of the lower stationary system of 11 modules is arranged at the level of the water level 35 in the full lower base reservoir 4.

[1085] The transfer pump unit 45 is connected to the transfer pipe 39, which leads to the lower bottoms ofthe lower module reservoirs 26 and the lower stationary system of 11 modules, and is also connected to the transfer pipe 39, which leads upwards to the upper reservoir; it is arranged in a pit excavated next to the lower base reservoir 4 and is arranged below the lowest water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4 to prevent cavitation.

[1086] Fig. 21a shows the lower module reservoirs 26a from which the pumped water is drawn. The membranes 25b are adjacent to the inner walls in the lower half of the lower module reservoirs 26a.

[1087] Since there is not enough water in the lower base reservoir 4 around the lower stationary system of 11 modules, only part of the lower module reservoirs 26a is flooded with water from the lower base reservoir 4, and above the membranes 25b there is air sucked in from the atmosphere through ventilation openings in the upper half of the lower module reservoirs 26a.

[1088] The water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4 remains higher than the water level 36 in the lower module reservoirs 26a of the lower stationary system 11 modules, so that the walls of the lower module reservoirs 26a are stressed by external overpressure of water in the lower base reservoir 4 and must be reinforced.

[1089] Fig. 2 lb shows the lower module reservoirs 26a fdled with water pumped through the transfer pipe 39 from the upper reservoir. The membranes 25b are adjacent to the inner walls in the upper half of the lower module reservoirs 26a, the water is forced out of the space above the membranes 25b into the lower base reservoir 4 and the air is forced out into the atmosphere. The values of the internal and external water pressure acting on the walls of the lower module reservoirs 26a are balanced in this situation.

[1090] Fig. 22 shows a diagram of the lower stationary module array with membranes arranged in the base reservoir.

[1091] Stationary standard modules 19 comprise supports 24 on which lower module reservoirs 26a are arranged, which are equipped with membranes 25b fixed low above the lower bottom of the lower module reservoirs 26a. In the upper part of the lower module reservoirs 26a, above the membrane 25b attachment, flow openings are formed in their walls.

[1092] The lower stationary system of 11 modules is built on the bottom of the lower base reservoir 4 on solid subsoil 7, the supports 24 are anchored directly in the subsoil 7 without the need for bases. The upper edge of the lower stationary system of 11 modules is arranged at the level of the water level 35 in the full lower base reservoir 4.

[1093] The transfer pump unit 45 is connected to the transfer pipe 39, which leads to the lower bottoms of the lower module reservoirs 26 and the lower stationary system of 11 modules, and is also connected to the transfer pipe 39, which leads upwards to the upper reservoir; it is arranged in a pit excavated next to the lower base reservoir 4 and is arranged below the lowest water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4 to prevent cavitation.

[1094] Fig. 22a shows the lower module reservoirs 26a from which the pumped water is drawn. The membranes 25b are adjacent to the inner walls at the bottom of the lower module reservoirs 26a.

[1095] Since there is not enough water in the lower base reservoir 4 around the lower stationary system of 11 modules, only part of the lower module reservoirs 26a above the membranes 25b is filled with water from the lower base reservoir 4, and air is sucked in from the atmosphere through ventilation openings in the upper half of the lower module reservoirs 26a.

[1096] Since the openings in the walls of the lower module reservoirs 26a are formed up to the point where the membranes 25b are attached, the water level in the lower module reservoirs 26a of the lower stationary system of 11 modules and the water level 35 in the lower base reservoir 4 are equalised, so that the walls of the lower module reservoirs 26a in the lower stationary system of 11 modules are not stressed by internal or external overpressure and can therefore be made of thin material.

[1097] Fig. 22b shows the lower module reservoirs 26a filled with water pumped from the upper reservoir via the transfer pipe 39. The me...

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS1. A pumped storage power plant which comprises a lower reservoir (26) and a separate upper reservoir (27) for pumping water, wherein at least one of the separate reservoirs (26, 27) comprises module reservoirs (25a) arranged on a foundation or on a supporting element, wherein the pumped storage power plant further comprises a transfer pipe (39) and a transfer unit (45) arranged for pumping water between the lower reservoir (26) and the upper reservoir (27), characterised in that, in order to improve the protection of the module reservoir (25a) against external environmental influences, at least one module reservoir (25a) is arranged or formed on a support (24) or in a space of the support (24), wherein the support (24) is arranged on or in the foundation or is arranged on or in the supporting element, wherein in a stationary embodiment, the foundation is a subsoil (7), and the supporting element is a base (22) arranged on the subsoil (7), and in a floating embodiment, the foundation is water in a base reservoir (3) and the supporting element is a float (23) arranged in the water in the base reservoir (3), and / or at least one module reservoir (25a) comprises an internal gas space which is sealed against outside air and connected directly or by means of a vent pipe (43) to another sealed gas space, and / or at least a surface of one module reservoir (25a) is provided with a cover (60) at least on its side and / or at least on its top, wherein a space between the cover (60) and the module reservoir (25a) is fdled with gas, liquid or solid.

2. The pumped storage power plant according to claim 1 characterised in that the lower reservoir (26) and / or the upper reservoir (27) comprises a module array (9) which comprises standard modules (18) and / or a group of standard modules (18), wherein the standard module (18) comprises a module reservoir (25a), wherein the group of the standard modules ( 18) is formed by hydraulic and / or structural connection of the standard modules (18).

3. The pumped storage power plant according to claim 1 or 2 characterised in that the gas space of the module reservoir (25a) in the lower reservoir (26) is connected to the gas space of the module reservoir (25a) in the upper reservoir (27) by means of the vent pipe (43).

4. The pumped storage power plant according to any of claims 1 to 3 characterised in that it comprises a device (81) for removing heat from the pumped water, arranged for heating a residential building (48) and / or for heating drinking water.

5. The pumped storage power plant according to any of claims 1 to 4 characterised in that it comprises a device (80) for supplying heat to the pumped water.

6. The pumped storage power plant according to any of claims 1 to 5 characterised in that the cover (60) has an upper platform and side walls on which solar power plant panels (46) and / or a wind power plant is / are arranged, which are electrically connected to the device (80) for supplying heat to the pumped water.

7. The pumped storage power plant according to any of claims 1 to 6 characterised in that it comprises a measuring, regulating and control system for ensuring uniform fdling of the module reservoirs (25a) in the stationary embodiment.

8. The pumped storage power plant according to any of claims 1 to 6 characterised in that it comprises a measuring, regulating and control system for ensuring uniform filling of the module reservoirs (25a) and for stabilising the position of the module array (9) in the floating embodiment.

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