Retrofitting Existing Hydropower Facilities for Pumped Storage: Technical and Economic Viability in Córdoba, Argentina

Abstract:
The rapid integration of variable renewable energy into power grids creates an urgent demand for energy storage, dispatchable power, and overall system flexibility. This presentation explores the technical and economic feasibility of retrofitting existing old conventional hydropower stations—specifically the La Viña and Fitz Simon ones in Córdoba, Argentina—into pumped-storage schemes.

Based on technical site assessments, historical operational data, and hydraulic constraints, tailored configurations were designed for each location: an independent generation-and-pumping scheme for La Viña, and a conversion to reversible units for Fitz Simon. Both designs address key discharge tailrace adaptations to ensure required suction conditions and usable storage volume.

The presentation will demonstrate how these retrofits can effectively shift energy to peak demand periods and provide controllable firm capacity. Additionally, an economic assessment highlighting energy arbitrage returns will be discussed, emphasizing the critical role that capacity payments, grid reliability, and ancillary services play in enhancing the financial viability of such storage projects.

Bio:
Dr. Santiago María Reyna is a Full Professor of Hydraulic Works and Environmental Engineering at the National University of Córdoba (UNC), Argentina. He earned his Civil Engineering degree from UNC and completed two Master’s degrees and a Ph.D. at Purdue University.

At UNC, Dr. Reyna coordinates the Environmental Engineering program and directs Master’s programs in Renewable Energy Generation, Environmental Engineering Sciences and Water Resources Engineering. A Diplomate in Water Resources Engineering (DWRE) from ASCE and a member of the Pan-American Academy of Engineering, he has represented Latin America and the Caribbean on the Adaptation Fund Board. He holds Category I status as a professor researcher.