Progress of gravity energy storage project

Is gravity energy storage a new energy storage technology?

Abstract: With the grid-connected ratio of renewable energy growing up, the development of energy storage technology has received widespread attention. Gravity energy storage, as one of the new physical energy storage technologies, has outstanding strengths in environmental protection and economy.

How does gravity energy storage work?

The firm’s technology works by raising weights in a deep shaft and releasing them when energy is required. The technology is similar to that employed by Switzerland-headquartered and NYSE-listed Energy Vault, whose CEO Robert Piconi provided an update to its first commercial gravity energy storage project in Rudong, China, in a shareholder letter.

What is gravity storage?

Gravity storage has been proposed by a number of players, as a way to store solar and wind energy that has been generated at times when demand is low. On a sunny day, for instance, a solar farm's output could be stored as potential energy by raising concrete blocks.

Could gravity storage help balance a wind farm's electricity output?

Switzerland-based Energy Vault says it has built a large gravity storage installation in China which will help balance the electrical output of a wind farm, and it is now being "commissioned" before connection to the grid.

What are some examples of gravity storage?

The most striking example of this shift to gravity storage is Rudong, China, where a partnership between Energy Vault (a Swiss company) and the Chinese government has created the EVx system. Standing over 120 meters high, the EVx building is a massive mechanical tower for lifting giant blocks weighing 24 tons during surplus energy.

How does The EVX gravity storage system work?

The EVx gravity storage system works by raising and lowering concrete blocks to store and release potential energy, and will store 100MWh of energy, which it can deliver at 25MW.