Gravity-Based Energy Storage: Reimagining Architecture for Sustainable Power

The Rise of Gravity Energy Storage Systems.

The concept of gravity-based energy storage is gaining traction, drawing parallels to the widely used pumped hydroelectric plants. Energy Vault, a pioneer in this field, recently achieved a significant milestone by completing its first major project near Shanghai. This stand-alone storage system boasts an impressive capacity, capable of supplying up to 25 megawatts of power for four hours.

As the industry evolves, other companies are exploring innovative gravity storage solutions, including systems that repurpose abandoned oil wells and mines.

SOM’s Architectural Vision for Energy Storage

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), a renowned architectural firm, has developed four distinct storage systems based on this gravity concept:

1. Two systems integrated into hillsides

2. One utilizing heavy blocks

3. One employing water

4. A tall, cylindrical tower designed for urban environments

The urban tower concept is particularly intriguing, as it has the potential to incorporate residential, retail, and office spaces, seamlessly blending energy storage with everyday urban life.

Scaling New Heights

While Energy Vault’s Shanghai project stands at an impressive 150 meters (490 feet), SOM’s ambitious skyscraper batteries aim even higher. These structures could potentially start at 300 meters, pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation and energy storage capabilities.

A Commitment to Sustainable Innovation

Adam Semel of SOM emphasized the firm’s long-standing commitment to pushing the boundaries of architecture and engineering. He stated, “Since our founding, SOM has pushed the boundaries of architecture and engineering, redefining what buildings can do for cities and communities.”

The partnership with Energy Vault represents a significant step towards accelerating the global transition away from fossil fuels. Semel added, “We’re exploring how renewable energy architecture can enhance our shared environments. Given the transformative nature of Energy Vault’s technology, we’re especially excited to launch this unique, global partnership.”

Energy Vault’s Global Expansion

Energy Vault’s Gravity Energy Storage Systems (GESS) are making waves on the international stage. The company’s growing portfolio of GESS deployments is marked by recent expansions into African and Asian markets.

Key Milestones:

– 2023: Commissioning of the world’s first EVx gravity storage system in China, the largest energy storage market globally

-Recent developments: Announcement of three additional EVx GESS deployments totaling 368 MWh in China

– Total announced projects in China: 3.7 GWh

Expanding to Southern Africa:

Energy Vault recently entered into a new license and royalty agreement for its gravity technology portfolio with grid partners in South Africa. This 10-year agreement covers the 16-country Southern African Development Community (SADC) region and is expected to result in multi-GWh of long-duration Energy Vault GESS deployments.

The SADC region’s energy storage needs are estimated to reach 25 GW/125 GWh by 2035, highlighting the significant potential for gravity-based energy storage solutions in this market.

As gravity-based energy storage continues to evolve, it promises to reshape both our energy landscape and our urban skylines, offering a sustainable solution to the world’s growing energy demands.