Energy Vault to build100-MW hybrid gravity storage site in Italy

Switzerland-based energy storage specialist Energy Vault Holdings Inc (NYSE:NRGV) has been tapped to deploy a 100-MW hybrid gravity-based energy storage system at a mine owned by Sardinian state-run coal mining company Carbosulcis SpA which is designated to be transformed into a carbon-free technology hub.

The system is specially designed by Energy Vault for underground mines, combining the company’s new EV0 modular pumped hydro gravity storage technology and lithium-ion batteries. It will be constructed within 500-meter-deep (1,640 ft) mine shafts, along with the VaultOS proprietary energy management software.

The new EV0, announced in May 2024, is a water and vessel-based “modular pumped hydro” solution. The partnership with Carbosulcis will mark the second deployment of a hybrid energy storage system by Energy Vault after the Calistoga PG&E project in northern California.

Energy Vault and Carbosulcis signed a land lease agreement for the project in July. The proposed site will be wholly owned and operated by Energy Vault.

The installation of the first modular gravity components is scheduled to start in September. Testing of the underground component of the system is expected to be completed in 2025.

“This project will maximize the local use of renewable energy, and at the same time provide services that will improve the stability of the power grid in Sardinia,” Carbosulcis’ CEO Francesco Lippi said.

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