China has achieved a significant breakthrough in the independent research and development of variable-speed pumped storage units. On the 16th, the 1:1 rotor of the 300MW variable-speed pumped storage unit generator motor passed the runaway test, fully verifying the dynamic stability and reliability of the rotor, which marks a breakthrough in China’s independent research and development of variable-speed pumped storage units.

The rotor of the variable-speed pumped storage unit generator motor has high requirements for dynamic stability and reliability, and is the most critical component of the unit, also known as the “hard bone” of technological research. To this end, Dongfang Electric Group, which undertook the task of independent research and development, innovatively adopted an end-to-end integral retaining ring structure, applied a new rotor winding connection method, and developed a large-diameter non-magnetic metal retaining ring, overcoming the difficulties in the design and development, process manufacturing, and assembly and installation of high-speed large-size wound rotors, ensuring the stability and reliability of the entire rotor system.

It is understood that the rapid development of the new energy industry has put forward higher requirements for the flexibility and stability of the power system. The variable-speed pumped storage unit can adjust its operating speed within a certain range, and has the characteristics of flexible operation, stable and reliable performance, and rapid response, which is suitable for the construction needs of the new power system.

Pumped storage is a safe, stable, and economical energy storage method. During off-peak hours, it converts electrical energy into the potential energy of water, and during peak hours, it converts the potential energy of water into electrical energy, acting as a giant “charger” for the grid, serving as a stabilizer for the grid and a storage device for clean energy.

souce from "Xinhua News Agency"