Examining the spread of sustainable solar-pumped hydropower utilization using the example of a hilly settlement in the Lake Velence watershed (Hungary)

Abstract

The war in Hungary’s neighbourhood has increased energy prices and supply risks, while extreme droughts and water shortages due to climate change are causing conflicts and economic damage. Traditional fossil-based electricity generation contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which further exacerbate droughts. The population around Lake Velence has been growing dynamically for decades, resulting in changing land use. The need to address water management issues has become acute, and the scarce water resources in the catchment area have a negative impact on ecosystems, tourism, agriculture and economic prospects. The risk of flash floods is increasing in hilly settlements, while the level of water retention is low, but the proportion of installed solar systems significantly exceeds the national average. The research presents a complex examination of renewable solar energy production capacities and the integrated utilisation potential of flash flood retention through the example of a hilly settlement. We examined the joint, multi-purpose utilization opportunities of multifunctional stormwater reservoirs that exploit solar capacities and geographical features. We examined the flow conditions of the pumped energy storage system and their multifunctional use with a hydrodynamic model: rainwater management with flash flood mitigation, cross-seasonal green energy storage, integration of agricultural, wildlife management, recreation and blue-green infrastructures. The design of the reservoirs took into account geographical characteristics, rainfall data and runoff, energy requirements, and solar panel performance. The integrated system was optimized for multi-purpose, sustainable water use and a low carbon footprint.Using the example of a hilly settlement, we demonstrated the benefits that can be achieved by combining low-carbon, cost-effective, sustainable water management and energy storage. The methodology promotes the advancement of sustainability goals - environmental, social, economic - and reduces the negative impacts of climate change through rainwater retention and multi-purpose use, as well as promotes local and regional development. This integrated approach and methodology can serve as a model for other hilly settlements, as well as for cooperation between neighboring municipalities.