Frequently asked questions
Transparency is key to our pumped storage project.
Why did Vattenfall choose this location?
The site selection is based on a combination of technical and spatial planning criteria. The significant hydraulic head and the large potential energy storage capacity make it possible to make an important contribution to a reliable electricity supply for society. Compatibility with spatial planning was confirmed as part of a completed regional planning procedure. In addition, Vattenfall has many years of operational experience with pumped storage facilities in Thuringia, including the modern Goldisthal pumped storage plant.
What is the planning status and timeline for the project?
The project is in an early planning phase. An updated hydrological feasibility study has been commissioned, the results of which were positive. Further preliminary planning steps and the formal planning approval procedure (“Planfeststellungsverfahren”) will follow. The application submission is planned for no earlier than 2028. An investment decision will be made after all procedures have been completed and taking into account regulatory and market conditions.
Why are lengthy studies required when large-scale storage is so urgently needed?
Large-scale storage systems are a central building block of the energy transition. Nevertheless, projects like PULS are subject to extensive approval procedures in which environmental and social impacts are assessed and the public is involved. These requirements apply to all comparable projects and serve to protect people and nature.
Can PCI status help to shorten the approval process?
Classification as a “Project of Common Interest” (PCI) can support the project at the European level and underline its importance in the evaluation process. However, the approval procedure itself will continue to be carried out in a legally compliant and thorough manner.
Does PCI status also involve financial support?
There is the possibility of funding for certain study components. Vattenfall is currently assessing whether and to what extent these options can be utilized.
What investments is Vattenfall planning at the site, and how many jobs will be created?
The investment volume is expected to be in the three-digit million range (based on preliminary planning as of 2025). The number of jobs varies depending on the project phase. In addition to temporary employment effects, the project contributes to the economic development of the region. The Swedish parent company Vattenfall AB strategically supports the project.
Has Vattenfall already secured the required land?
Around 90 percent of the approximately 400 contractually bound plots have been acquired. In addition, there are lease agreements with regional agricultural cooperatives. Further land acquisitions will be carried out depending on project needs.
What benefits does the project bring to neighboring municipalities?
Large projects such as PULS can generate regional value creation. More concrete statements will be possible after a final investment decision has been made.
Is there enough water in the project region against the background of climate change?
Hydrological suitability is a central criterion in the approval process. Together with the Climate Competence Center Thuringia, Vattenfall has carried out a hydrological long-term study up to 2100 under various climate scenarios. The results confirm the fundamental suitability of the site.
Unlike battery storage systems, pumped storage plants are not replaceable but are operated for many decades. Are the framework conditions in Germany sufficient to continue investing in such long-term projects?
Long-term investments require a stable regulatory framework. Thereby, aspects such as storage definition and grid charges are crucial. Vattenfall is closely monitoring developments and is actively involved in the discussion.
Could we save on storage power plants – whether pumped storage or batteries – if we also used nuclear power in Germany?
The phase-out of nuclear energy was politically decided in Germany. Additional storage facilities would also be necessary with nuclear power due to the expansion of renewable energies. Pumped storage makes an important contribution to grid stability – regardless of the energy mix.
In Dresden, the Niederwartha pumped storage facility was shut down. How does this fit in with the planned new construction project PULS?
The Niederwartha power plant was decommissioned after almost 100 years because it no longer met today's technical and economic requirements. The topographical conditions led to an unfavourable degree of efficiency. The PULS project, on the other hand, is based on different prerequisites and meets the requirements of modern storage solutions.