Energy Vault and SOM Unveil Revolutionary Gravity Energy Storage Partnership
In a groundbreaking move toward sustainable building design, Energy Vault Holdings, Inc. and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) have announced an exclusive global partnership aimed at integrating gravity energy storage into architectural and structural designs. This collaboration seeks to revolutionize the future of sustainable buildings, promising accelerated carbon paybacks and enhanced energy efficiency.
Pioneering Sustainable Architecture
SOM, a titan in the architectural world known for iconic structures like the Burj Khalifa, One World Trade Center, and Willis Tower, is set to bring its expertise to Energy Vault’s cutting-edge gravity energy storage systems (GESS). The partnership aims to seamlessly incorporate these storage solutions into both urban skyscrapers and natural environments, pushing the boundaries of sustainable design.
Innovative Gravity Energy Storage Solutions
The partnership between Energy Vault and SOM will focus on developing the next generation of gravity energy storage systems (GESS).These solutions include:
EVu™: A super-structure tower design for tall buildings, capable of housing multi-GWh of gravity-based energy storage.
EVc™: A modular water-based system for large-scale pumped hydro energy storage within tall buildings.
EVy™: A system that utilizes pre-existing slopes and topographies for low-cost, eco-friendly energy storage.
EV0™: A modular design that combines the benefits of traditional pumped hydro storage with minimal environmental impact.
A Transformative Partnership
Robert Piconi, Chairman and CEO of Energy Vault, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the potential to open new markets focused on sustainability in building design and energy efficiency. “Our strategic partnership with SOM opens a new multi-billion dollar market segment for Energy Vault,” said Piconi. “The combination of our pioneering work in gravity energy storage technology with SOM’s global expertise will deliver accelerated carbon payback in building construction and operation for the first time.”
Leading the partnership from SOM are Partners Adam Semel and Scott Duncan, along with Structural Engineer Bill Baker, renowned for his work on the Burj Khalifa. Semel emphasized SOM’s commitment to redefining the potential of buildings for cities and communities, “This partnership with Energy Vault is a commitment not only to accelerate the world’s transition away from fossil fuels but also to explore how the architecture of renewable energy can enhance our shared natural landscapes and urban environments.”
A Legacy of Innovation and Sustainability
SOM’s legacy of innovation in sustainability is well-established, with projects like the carbon-absorbing Urban Sequoia and bio-based concrete alternatives showcasing their commitment to environmental leadership. Partnering with Energy Vault aligns perfectly with SOM’s vision of a sustainable future, extending their influence from individual buildings to broader environmental impacts.
Energy Vault’s G-VAULT products are set to play a critical role in the deployment of renewable energy globally. The EVx™ platform, already tested in Switzerland and licensed in multiple countries, including China and regions within the South African Development Community, exemplifies the scalability and effectiveness of these solutions.
Looking Forward
As Energy Vault and SOM embark on this innovative journey, their partnership symbolizes a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable architecture and energy efficiency. By integrating gravity energy storage into building designs, they are not only enhancing energy resilience but also setting new standards for environmental responsibility and sustainability in the architectural world.
For more information, visit Energy Vault and SOM.