Why build a new pumping station?

To limit climate change and its effects, it is necessary to convert the energy system to renewable sources and promote the so-called energy transition. Renewable energies, such as solar and wind power, enable the production of clean and economical energy, but their availability is subject to significant fluctuations due to weather and climate conditions. Energy storage systems are therefore playing an increasingly important role in the future of energy supply, as they are able to compensate for the inevitable variations in electricity production.

South Tyrol can also actively contribute to the energy transition: with the Piano Clima Alto Adige 2040 (South Tyrol Climate Plan 2040), the region has set itself the goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2040. In South Tyrol and throughout the Alpine region, hydroelectric power is subject to marked seasonal fluctuations, characterised by a surplus of production in summer and reduced production in winter. In addition, the increasing use of energy from renewable sources accentuates the instability of supply. For this reason, the use of energy storage systems to balance production is becoming increasingly necessary.

Pumped storage power stations are particularly suitable for storing electricity due to their long service life and high efficiency. By using existing reservoirs, large amounts of energy can be stored without the need for new water diversions. In general, a pumped storage power plant consists of two reservoirs located at different altitudes. To store energy, water is pumped from the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir using excess electricity from the grid. During periods of high demand, water is released from the upper reservoir to the lower reservoir, generating electricity through a turbine-generator unit.

In line with Piano Clima Alto Adige 2040, Alperia's 2023–2027 business plan includes the development of storage systems, including pumped storage systems.

Why a pumped storage power plant in Val d'Ultimo?

After careful evaluation of various locations, the area between Lake Quaira and Lake Zòccolo in Val d'Ultimo was found to be particularly suitable for the construction of a pumped storage power plant. The difference in altitude of approximately 1,100 metres and the presence of existing reservoirs with adequate storage volume offer ideal conditions for energy storage. It would not be necessary to expand the reservoirs or withdraw additional quantities of water from the hydrological cycle. Essentially, an underground connection would be created between the two reservoirs.

Supply stability

A new pumped storage plant would help stabilise the electricity grid, which will come under increasing pressure in the future due to the irregular and unpredictable production of energy from renewable sources such as solar and wind power.

A green battery for climate protection

The “green battery” enables the integration of new renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaics and wind power, into the local and European energy system, actively contributing to the decarbonisation of energy supply.

During periods of overproduction, excess electricity would be used to pump water from the Zoccolo reservoir to the Quaira reservoir.

Conversely, when production from renewable sources is insufficient, for example at night or during peak consumption, pumped storage power stations can generate energy quickly and flexibly, effectively compensating for fluctuations.

Impact on the Val d'Ultimo

Within the framework of the Ultimo Citizens' Council and the für-ulten working group, the potential positive effects and any negative impacts of the construction of the pumped storage power plant will be identified and discussed with the participants.

The aim is to maximise the benefits and prevent, or at least mitigate, any negative impacts through appropriate measures. Appropriate compensatory measures will also be developed together with the citizens.

The results of the Ultimo Citizens' Council and the activities of the für-ulten working group will provide Alperia with valuable information for the planning process, representing a solid information and decision-making basis for the population of Ultimo in view of the referendum on the pumped storage power plant.

In general, the construction of the plant would involve investments of around 700 million euros in the Val d'Ultimo.

According to the experience of other energy companies (such as Verbund in Austria), around 30% of the added value remains in the region. The operation and maintenance of the plant would secure existing jobs and create new ones, for example through the awarding of contracts to local companies.

In addition, Alperia intends to actively involve all citizens of the municipality of Ultimo in the success of the project through the so-called ‘Ultimo Package’, which includes:

• Financial support for environmental or community projects;
• Free electricity supply to households;
• Financial support for businesses, the municipality and the Schwemmalm ski area.

For further details, please refer to the Questions and Answers section.