It is possible to store energy in the so-called gravity battery. When you hear the name, the first thing that comes to your mind is probably quantum mechanics. However, this type of energy storage device has nothing to do with quantum world.
From a mechanical perspective, gravity energy storage uses heavy objects (for example, concrete blocks) where the stored energy changes as you change the height at which these objects are suspended. . The principle of operation is simple: when you lift an object, its potential energy increases, and when they fall, the amount of potential energy accumulated decreases.
This idea may seem very new at first glance, but it is not. Think of the pendulum clock – the first model was invented in 1656 and it was powered using a mechanical escapement controlled by the force of gravity. Pumped storage hydroelectric power plants also fit the definition of gravity energy storage: where water is pumped to higher heights using unused electricity, and then released through turbines to recover stored energy.
Today, at least a few companies are working to develop new types of large-scale gravity energy storage systems, capable of using excess energy from the grid to lift heavy objects into the air. , and then convert their potential energy into electricity.
The following video discusses the current state of gravity battery technology and presents a brief comparison between the types of large-scale energy storage available. It is worth noting that the ability to store gravity energy is much better increased storage costs (LCOS) versus other alternatives:
