Technology
Gravitational energy storage (GES)
Country
Switzerland
Application in details
Gravitational energy storage (GES)
Energy Vault's Gravity Energy Solutions (GES) are based on the well-understood physics and engineering fundamentals of pumped-hydro storage (PHS), but replace water with custom-made composite blocks or «mobile masses» that can be made from low-cost and locally available materials, including local soil, mine tailings, coal combustion residues (coal ash) and decommissioned wind turbine blades.
Energy Vault's GES is based on PHS's core proven energy storage technology and incorporates a simplified building design that is modular, flexible and not constrained by the same geological constraints as pumped storage plants. Applying the fundamental principles of gravity and potential energy, Energy Vault's GES solutions combine advanced materials science and proprietary machine vision software to autonomously manage the charge, storage and discharge of electricity in grid applications.
Scalability
The modular solution is cost-effective for both short (2-4 hours) and long (4-12+ hours) durations. It is resistant to harsh conditions and high ambient temperatures without the risk of chemical ignition.
Built to international construction standards with local supply chain and job sourcing to eliminate production bottlenecks. No performance degradation over time; mechanical components and mobile masses cannot fundamentally deteriorate.
