The sun doesn’t always shine and the wind doesn’t always blow. What do we do if there is no \u00a0renewable energy\u00a0 when we need to turn on the lights? Typically, cities rely on lithium batteries or \u00a0pumped hydroelectric plants\u00a0. However, cities that build vertically, such as \u00a0Benidorm\u00a0, have another untapped option.<\/p>\n
In short,<\/strong> a comprehensive University of Waterloo study<\/a> has unveiled a groundbreaking concept: using the height of buildings to create a \u00a0gravity energy storage system\u00a0. This innovative idea transforms vertically-oriented cities into enormous devices capable of storing and releasing energy on demand.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Mechanical batteries.<\/strong> The concept is straightforward yet revolutionary. It features a heavy mass\u2014often made of concrete or steel blocks\u2014and incorporates a system of pulleys and cables akin to an elevator. Additionally, a motor serves as both a motor and generator.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Here’s how it works: When there is a surplus of energy\u2014such as at midday when a building’s \u00a0solar panels\u00a0 operate at full capacity\u2014the motor utilizes that electricity to lift the heavy mass along a vertical shaft. In this process, electrical energy is converted into \u00a0potential energy\u00a0.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n When electricity is needed, such as at night or during calm weather when renewables are not producing, the mass is released in a controlled manner. The force of gravity takes over: the descending weight then drives the generator, converting potential energy back into usable electricity.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Tested successfully.<\/strong> Researchers propose this innovative system as the core of a \u00a0hybrid energy ecosystem\u00a0 integrated within the building itself. This ecosystem can include photovoltaic panels on the fa\u00e7ades, small wind turbines on rooftops, and supportive \u00a0lithium-ion batteries\u00a0.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <img alt=\"They are not lakes, they are batteries: China is transforming its reservoirs into the largest pumping stations in the world\" width=\"375\" height=\"142\" src=\"https:\/\/i.blogs.es\/cc3361\/china-embalses\/375_142.jpeg\"\/><\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n