  There is a pressing need for a transition from fossil fuel to renewable
energy to meet the increasing energy demands and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions. The Himalayas possess substantial renewable energy potential that
can be harnessed through hydropower projects due to its peculiar topographic
characteristics and abundant water resources. However, the current exploitation
rate is low owing to the predominance of run-of-river hydropower systems to
support the power system. The utility-scale storage facility is crucial in the
load scenario of an integrated power system to manage diurnal variation, peak
demand, and penetration of intermittent energy sources. In this study, we first
identify the potential of pumped storage hydropower across Nepal (a central
Himalayan country) under multiple configurations by pairing lakes, hydropower
projects, rivers, and available flat terrains. We then identify technically
feasible pairs from those of potential locations. Infrastructural,
environmental, operational, and other technical constraints govern the choice
of feasible locations. We find the flat land-to-river configuration most
promising than other configurations. Our results provide insight into the
potential of pumped storage hydropower and are of practical importance in
planning sustainable power systems in the Himalayas and beyond.
