Energy Vault Holdings, Inc. and Carbosulcis S.p.A. have announced the development of a 100 MW hybrid gravity energy storage system designed for underground mines. This innovative solution combines Energy Vault’s modular gravity storage technology with batteries, to be deployed in 500-meter deep mine shafts.
The system, featuring Energy Vault’s EV0™ gravity technology and VaultOS™ energy management software, aims to support the Sardinia Government’s initiative to transform a coal mine into a carbon-free technology hub. This conversion will attract new industrial and technological activities and stabilize the island’s power grid by dispatching renewable energy during peak hours.
The hybrid system integrates traditional pumped hydro storage with Energy Vault’s gravity technology, leveraging the unique underground features of the former coal mine. Installation of the initial modular components will start in September 2024, with full testing expected by 2025.
Carbosulcis’ Nuraxi Figus site, a coal mine set to close by 2026, will be converted into a technology hub with minimal environmental impact. The project will enhance local renewable energy use and grid stability, supporting Sardinia’s transition from coal. Energy Vault will own and operate the site, reflecting its commitment to long-term regional partnerships.
Francesco Lippi, CEO of Carbosulcis, highlighted the project’s potential to maximize renewable energy use and improve grid stability, while Marco Terruzin, Chief Commercial and Product Officer at Energy Vault, emphasized the project’s role in revitalizing the Sardinia region and the broader potential of their technology for global applications.
The EV0 system is part of Energy Vault’s G-VAULT gravity storage portfolio and represents the second hybrid energy storage deployment following their Calistoga PG&E project in California.
