Pumped storageߞthe handmaiden of nuclear power

The power companies of the New England states, where fossil-fuel cost is high, have determined that low-variable-cost nuclear generation is desirable for this region. The construction of pumped-storage hydro plants, favored by the topography of the area, will offset the relatively high fixed costs of nuclear plants by maximizing the capacity-use factor of the nuclear facilities and thereby minimizing the total cost per unit of energy output. This combination provides efficient base load, economical peaking capacity, and effective spinning reserve, along with many recreational and other social benefits.