Recently, the term "pumped-storage hydropower" is actually and appropriately discussed in the context of which one of the following ?
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Answer: C. Pumped-storage hydropower uses two reservoirs at different heights. When power is cheap or surplus (for example from solar), water is pumped uphill; when power is needed, it flows down through turbines. It stores energy for many hours and is the main form of long-duration energy storage.
Watch for: The word 'pumped' suggests lift irrigation, but the purpose is storing electricity.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Wrong because it is about storing electricity, not irrigating terraces.
- B. Wrong because lift irrigation pumps water to fields, not to store power.
- D. Wrong because it is not about collecting rainwater.
Source to check: Central Electricity Authority, 'Guidelines to Promote Development of Pumped Storage Projects' (Ministry of Power, 2023)
Answer from the official UPSC key. Written and fact-checked by AI against the official key. Spotted a mistake? Report it.