The Renewable-Energy Revolution Will Need Renewable Storage

• “Dunkelflaute,” or “dark doldrums,” hinder renewable energy sources like solar and wind during periods of low generation, posing challenges for grid reliability.
• Lithium-ion batteries, while common, have limitations in duration and sustainability.
• Alternative solutions include pumped hydro and novel approaches like Quidnet’s underground pumped hydro and Energy Vault’s gravity-based systems. Emerging technologies like gravitricity and flow batteries offer further promise. 
• However, scaling these innovations and integrating them into existing grids require addressing technical, economic, and regulatory challenges.
• Achieving a fully renewable energy system will likely entail a mix of storage methods tailored to different needs and conditions, aiming for sustainability and grid resilience. 

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