Using Skyscrapers for Energy Storage
Skyscrapers could soon be used to store renewable energy by using gravity energy storage solutions, such as giant blocks that store electricity as potential energy and release it when needed. This innovation aims to help balance the intermittency of renewable energy sources and move towards clean energy grids.
Key Points
- Skyscrapers can be repurposed for storing renewable energy using gravity energy storage solutions
- Combination of technologies needed for grid-scale energy storage
- SOM and Energy Vault developing skyscraper designs for energy storage
- Benefits of using skyscrapers for energy storage in offsetting carbon footprints
- Importance of energy storage in achieving net zero emissions by 2050
Pros
- Helps balance the intermittency of renewable energy sources
- Enables the storage of excess renewable energy for later use
- Contributes to moving towards clean energy grids
Cons
- Economics of skyscraper battery systems questioned by some experts
- Structural changes and space required for energy storage in skyscrapers
- Challenges in commercial viability