Setting the pace: East Asia’s rise to the top

East Asia is the world’s engine room for pumped storage hydropower development. Led by China but with Japan and South Korea having significant fleets, the region accounts for nearly half of the world’s installed capacity of pumped storage hydropower and an even bigger proportion of the project pipeline.

Rapid economic growth, together with an increasing focus on achieving sustainable outcomes, has helped propel PS development in many countries across the region, as well as supportive policies.

This session will draw upon case studies from industry and policymakers to showcase how the Asian powerhouses are addressing barriers to pumped storage development.

Session objectives

The session will provide an in-depth understanding of the unique characteristics and recent developments across key countries in the region. Attendees will gain an overview of pumped storage hydropower trends, including capacity additions, major policy shifts, and notable project updates.

It will also feature focused deep dives into select countries, with local experts sharing insights on national contexts, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of pumped storage. The panel will:

• Promote understanding of what is driving development in the region, especially China.
• Explore how East Asian markets are valuing and incentivizing pumped storage hydropower, and examine the reforms and innovations needed to ensure its long-term bankability.
• Examine the national and subnational policies that have enabled East Asia’s leadership in pumped storage hydropower, while highlighting the critical gaps that must be addressed to sustain this momentum.