Grid stability in the MENA Countries: Can pumped storage support grid integration of renewables?

This article outlines the renewable energy situation in the MENA (Middle East – North Africa) countries and the increasing problems of grid stabilization. A range of measures which could be taken by the relevant organizations are discussed. One such measure is energy storage; in this context the importance of pumped-storage plants is emphasized. Eventually an appeal is directed to grid operators, regulating authorities and powerplant operators to start actions now to avoid the problems expected in the next decade.