Mathematical Analysis and Design of a Low Power Gravity-Based Energy Storage System and Comparison with Battery Storage Systems

The International Energy Agency (IEA) asserts that worldwide electricity demand is rising exponentially every year. Energy storage is the cornerstone of electricity demand. Gravity-based energy storage systems represent the optimum alternative for energy storage systems. They offer zero carbon emission, environmental sustainability, cost-effectiveness, geographical flexibility, long-duration storage, and scalability ranging from 0.5 to 10 GWh. This research introduces a novel design to confirm the workability of the gravity energy storage model. It validates the feasibility of the system through the drive train setup. The drive train model involves storing potential energy by elevating the stack weight using solar photovoltaic input and releasing the weight to generate electrical energy using the gravitational field. The gravity motion is theoretically proven by the mathematical analysis, drive train control system transfer function model, and golden ratio-based design. Solidworks simulation model enhances the working of the drive train setup. Through hardware iterative experimental results with different load profiles, validate the performance metrics. The gravity energy storage system’s feasibility is demonstrated by its scalability in comparison with battery energy systems. Gravity-based energy storage is the best option for utility-scale renewable energy grid integration, since it has a low energy density, medium and large capacity, long-lasting storage, and high scalability.