Solving The Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Problem, With Buildings

Pumped hydropower energy storage systems have a problem. They can provide long-lasting, large-scale storage for wind and solar power, but they are massive pieces of expensive infrastructure. They also require specific topography, and they can easily run into opposition on environmental grounds. If only someone, somewhere, could figure out a way to resolve all three issues at once — oh, wait.

“This partnership with Energy Vault is a commitment not only to accelerate the world’s transition away from fossil fuels, but also to explore, together, how the architecture of renewable energy can enhance our shared natural landscapes and urban environments,” SOM partner Adam Semel explained in a press statement.

“EVc’s cylindrical shape is an optimized design to withstand environmental factors such as wind and seismic events,” the company also notes.In addition to the EVc and EVu systems, Energy Vault is also rolling out another gravity system. Called EVy, this one relies on existing topography, but requires less infrastructure than conventional pumped hydro systems.

The Energy Department is also determined to make the case for new closed loop pumped hydro systems. Closed loop systems recirculate the same water between two reservoirs, instead of releasing it to a running river.

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