Green hydrogen is increasingly being targeted among the solutions that can contribute to the global goal of zero carbon emissions. gravitricity, UK startup specializing in underground energy storage (e gravitational batteries), is finalizing the design of special purpose-built rock wells to effectively store hydrogen underground.
Gravitricity claims its technology, called Flexi Store, is the ideal solution to solve problems related to hydrogen storage. FlexiStore differs from “surface” alternatives because it offers a larger and more secure system. Furthermore, it is more flexible than salt caves already explored (and used) as a method of underground storage: Gravitricity deposits can be built wherever they are needed.
Underground hydrogen wells?
To make the most of the wind energy generated by an offshore wind farm, the scenario envisaged by Gravitricity is that of a series of FlexiStores to store the green hydrogen produced. This would avoid emptying a single tank every day and could absorb large quantities of wind energy that would otherwise be wasted. In reality, there are many use cases: for updates and more information, please refer to Official site of the startup.
It can be done
If a goal like this may still seem far away or complicated to some, perhaps they would do better to think again. Gravitricity has already identified several locations to kick off its UK underground pilot project, and is already discussing the details and commercial possibilities with the site owners. It has also (recently) completed an extensive feasibility study which cost around €340.000 (£300.000 at current exchange rates). The study demonstrated beyond doubt that Flexistore can be used to store large quantities of compressed hydrogen. In summary? The project is both technically and commercially viable.
When do you start?
