Pumped hydro from open pit or underground mines is very challenging. The pump/turbine has to be at the bottom, but above high water level. So the effective head is much less than the depth of the pit. Permanent access in either case can be very expensive. The slopes above pit haulroads are designed to last mine life only, and even then may need regular maintenance. Haulroads themselves often fail after pit closure. Rehabilitation of an underground mine decline might cost $10,000 per linear metre or $90,000 per vertical metre on a one in nine grade. And then there is the need for permanent ventilation, power reticulation, and modularisation of hydro components to fit down a 5x5m tunnel.