Concrete spheres for energy storage; California plans a 9-meter diameter sphere
a year ago
- #renewable-energy
- #energy-storage
- #innovation
- German researchers propose using concrete spheres on the ocean floor for renewable energy storage.
- Project StEnSea uses hollow concrete spheres with pump-turbines to store and release energy via water pressure.
- Pilot tests in Lake Constance were successful; a larger 9m diameter sphere will be tested in California in 2026.
- Each sphere can store 0.4 MWh, with potential for larger 30m spheres deployed globally.
- Advantages include high expansion potential, minimal environmental impact, and high social acceptability.
- The technology could support global renewable energy expansion with a lifespan of 50-60 years per sphere.