Can skyscrapers act as storage batteries?

At present, there are 9,584 buildings around the world that are at least 150 meters tall. These buildings have mainly been admired for their unique designs. However, they might soon have new uses. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), the firm behind the iconic Burj Khalifa, has proposed a concept of using skyscrapers as massive energy storage units.

The future of sustainable building architecture

The company behind the 828-meter-high Burj Khalifa in Dubai has partnered with the American company Energy Vault. This collaboration aims to use gravity to create tall buildings that also function as storage batteries. SOM will be the exclusive architect and structural engineer for these next-generation gravity energy storage systems (GESS).

The innovative technology works on a simple principle. Prototypes are designed to lift heavy blocks to the top of a skyscraper using electricity, creating potential energy that is stored. This process occurs during off-peak hours when energy is cheaper. When energy demand increases, the blocks are lowered, generating electricity as they descend.

This concept is similar to the widely used pumped-storage power plants. It is believed that this idea could revolutionize renewable energy storage, a crucial part of the energy transition. Unlike renewable energy sources, storing electricity in skyscrapers provides a stable power supply. Additionally, this solution is relatively low-cost and scalable.

The first GESS projects are already completed

Based on this concept, SOM has developed four new storage systems. Three of them use either heavy blocks or water. Two systems are integrated into hillsides, and one is a tall, cylindrical tower designed for urban environments, suitable for residential, commercial, and office spaces.

The first completed Energy Vault project in Shanghai is about 150 meters tall and can deliver 25 MW of energy for four hours. SOM plans to build a 300-meter-high commercial facility in 2025. According to announcements, the buildings could ultimately reach up to one kilometer in height and become climate neutral after just four years of use.

Adam Semel, SOM Partner, said, “Since its founding, SOM has pushed the boundaries of architecture and engineering, redefining what buildings can do for cities and communities. Given the transformative nature of Energy Vault technology, we are especially excited to launch this unique, global partnership.”

Source: interestingengineering.com