Gravity batteries store energy in objects by lifting them higher off the ground. First, they raise these objects by re-deploying surplus energy through electric motors. Later, they harvest the gravitational energy by lowering these ‘batteries’ to rotate turbines. To date, these devices have been standalone, purpose-built structures. But now there is talk of integrating gravity batteries in skyscrapers.
Integrating Gravity Batteries in Buildings
Skyscraper buildings are large electricity consumers. Building management equipment powers elevators, emergency lights, and smoke alarms during blackouts. While tenants must make their own arrangements for local power back up.
These systems are expensive, and they cost money to operate without a direct, tangible return. But now a remarkable new initiative suggests integrating gravity batteries in skyscrapers could achieve carbon payback within four years.
The concept is as simple as it is breathtaking. Create a vertical duct throughout a building with a pulley system linking top and bottom. Install reversible electric motors / dynamos, cable up, and add some weights.
Voila, you now have a local generator able to sell electricity back to the grid. How elegantly simple is that? Why did it take so long for somebody to come up with this idea? So many questions, let’s find out.
The Partnership Behind the Idea
A consortium of forward thinkers came up with the idea. Members are Swiss Energy Vault Holding who ‘own’ the technology, architects Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, and property developer Burj Khalifa.
- Skidmore, Owings and Merril are one of the world’s largest architectural firms, according Archinect News. They inspired the ‘glass box’ skyscraper style, and designed several of the tallest buildings in the world.
- Burj Khalifa will soon begin constructing Dubai’s second tallest skyscraper, Burj Asiszi. When complete, this structure will be 122 stories high, and reach some 1,476 feet above its foundations. Total project cost will be in the region of US$1,5 billion.
We mention their names not to promote either of these companies in any way. However, their involvement does illustrate that integrating gravity batteries in buildings is no idle pipe dream.
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