Gravitricity: Gravity Energy Project to Generate Electricity by Plunging Heavy Weights Down Disused Mine Shafts

September 8th, 2020

This seems like an interesting idea. It’s a bit like pumped hydro, but without the requirement of elevated water storage.

Via: Newsweek:

An energy project that will generate electrical power using gravity, by raising and lowering heavy weights down mine shafts, could spark into action next year.

U.K.-based Gravitricity said in a press release that its plan to store and release clean energy by hoisting and plunging weights down shafts close to 5,000 feet deep is now closer to becoming a reality, as construction of a prototype started in August.

In theory, upon completion the system will suspend weight of up to 12,000 tonnes using cables and a winch in a shaft. Raising the weight charges the system, while dropping it discharges electricity to a power grid, effectively acting as a generator.

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