Exploration on the Potential and Feasibility of Gravity Based Energy Storage

Abstract

As the world transitions from fossil fuels to alternative renewable energy sources, energy storage technologies must be utilized in order to provide access to power during the source’s off-peak hours. Chemical batteries provide a lot of upside in energy storage including their high energy density, immediate availability, and long storage durations. However, many types of chemical batteries have a shorter lifespan in comparison to other alternatives and also consist of toxic and rare metals that are not obtained with the environment in mind. Gravity batteries provide a more environmentally friendly option when used in tandem with renewable energy sources. They can be constructed using minimal toxic materials and provide reliable storage for a longer lifespan than traditional chemical batteries. This paper will discuss organizations that are manufacturing large-scale gravity batteries, their ongoing advancements and a brief comparison with traditional chemical batteries. It will also include the design process of a small-scale gravity battery in order to further understand the dynamics and limitations of the entire system while providing useful information on the scalability of such systems.