With the deep implementation of the carbon peak and carbon neutral strategy, photovoltaic, wind power, and other new energy sources have experienced an extraordinary and rapid development trend. Energy storage technology, which enhances the grid integration and absorption capacity of new energy, plays a crucial role in supporting the large-scale development of photovoltaic and wind power. Pumped storage, as a mature and economically viable energy storage technology with favorable conditions for large-scale deployment , has become a key alternative in constructing a new power system. In recent years, China has accelerated the development of pumped storage power stations, ranking first worldwide in both completed and under-construction projects. However, operating pumped storage power stations includes energy losses. Under the current statistical assessment system, this energy consumption is primarily attributed to the project location, impeding local efforts in energy consumption control. Building upon an analysis of the sources of energy consumption in pumped storage power stations, this study provides a detailed examination of the energy consumption intensity and overall amount of typical capacity pumped storage power stations, as well as the existing statistical assessment mechanisms and associated issues. Various assessment schemes are analyzed for their pros and cons. Finally, considering the functional positioning and beneficiaries of pumped storage power stations, this paper proposes policy recommendations to optimize the evaluation mechanism for energy consumption in pumped storage power stations, adhering to the principle of "who benefits, who bears the burden". These suggestions hold practical significance in promoting the sustainable development of pumped storage power stations and can also serve as a reference for managing energy consumption in the large-scale development of novel energy storage power stations.