energylifting

Energylifting is a class of energy storage and delivery systems that store electrical energy by raising a substantial mass against gravity and release energy through controlled lowering. The approach is categorized as gravity-based energy storage and is studied as a complement to chemical batteries and other storage technologies.

Its primary mechanism involves using electricity to operate a lifting device (such as a crane, winch, or hydraulic system) that hoists a mass to a higher elevation. When energy is needed, the mass is allowed to descend slowly, turning a generator or turbine to convert gravitational potential energy back into electricity. The rate of energy release is controlled to match grid demands.

Common implementations range from modular block systems to whole-building or tower-scale installations. Masses may consist of concrete blocks, metal weights, or other dense materials. Key components include the mass, lifting mechanism, vertical guides, a power conversion unit, and a control system that manages charging, discharging, and safety interlocks.

Round-trip efficiency and capital costs vary with design but can compete with other long-duration storage options for grid-scale applications. Compared with pumped-storage hydroelectricity, energylifting can be deployed in urban or remote sites without large bodies of water, though it requires significant land footprint and robust safety measures.

Concepts of gravity-based storage date to earlier mechanical and pumped-storage technologies, with recent demonstrations by commercial ventures such as Energy Vault using towers of blocks lifted by cranes. Research focuses on reducing losses, increasing cycle life, and integrating with renewable energy sources.

Future directions include optimizing materials, improving control algorithms, and reducing land and maintenance costs to enable widespread adoption.