The Ministry of Energy agreed at the general meeting of shareholders of Valea Jiului Energy Complex, as the sole shareholder, to sign a Framework Agreement on cooperation with the Australian investor Green Gravity. The agreement is aimed at exploring the possibility of applying the innovative Green Gravity energy storage technology in 17 mine shafts at four mining enterprises in the Jului Valley in Romania.

The study will also assess the potential benefits and challenges of integrating the energy storage system with the existing electricity grid and renewable energy sources.

An innovative project with gravitational energy

According to representatives of the Australian company, this is an innovative project.

“We are delighted to partner with CEVJ in this innovative project, which has the potential to transform Romania’s coal industry into a hub for renewable energy storage, job creation, growth and innovation. Our technology offers a unique solution for storing excess renewable energy using gravity, which can help balance the electricity grid and support the EU’s climate goals,” said Mark Swinnerton, CEO of Green Gravity.

“Here we are quickly taking the first steps in reimagining the new company Complexul Energetic Valea Jiului, a chance for development and new jobs for the entire region,” said Energy Minister Sebastián Burduya.

How the gravitational energy storage system works

According to the Ministry of Energy, Green Gravity develops and operates the most modern gravity energy storage systems.

The Green Gravity energy storage system moves large loads vertically into obsolete mine shafts to capture and release the potential gravitational energy of those loads. By using proven mechanical parts and unused mine shafts, Green Gravity energy storage technology is low cost, long life and environmentally friendly.

To manage the inherent variability of renewable energy sources, energy storage must be added to power grids. This technological solution uses conventional mechanical components to install low-cost energy storage on old mining sites, the Department of Energy said.

Photo: Daniel MIHAILESCU / AFP / Profimedia