Exploring Promised Sites for Establishing Hydropower Energy Storage (PHES) Stations in Libya by Using the Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Suhaylah Mohammed, Yasser F. Nassar, Hamed Algassie, Asma Mahammed, Hala J. El‐Khozondar, Abubaker Alatrash
Abstract
This study aims to identify optimal locations for establishing pumped hydropower energy storage (PHES) stations in Libya using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The goal is to harness the region's natural resources to support Libya's strategic objectives of addressing energy deficits and increasing the share of renewable and clean energy in the national energy mix to over 50% by 2050. The study identifies several promising sites across Libya for the development of PHES stations, which could alleviate electricity shortages by storing surplus energy for use during peak demand, thus enhancing grid stability. Additionally, these stations can serve as energy storage solutions for renewable and hybrid energy systems. The findings indicate that approximately 24.73% of Libya's total area could be suitable for PHES development. The identified locations were classified into three categories based on a decision-making matrix integrated into GIS: high suitability (4.90%), medium suitability (6.15%), and low suitability (13.68%). The elevations of the most promising sites range from 188m to 2200m above sea level. The potential PHES capacities for these locations were estimated to range between 384-4,496 Wh/m³ of upper reservoir volume.