Smart microgrid construction in abandoned mines based on gravity energy storage

Area of Science:

• Energy Systems Engineering
• Renewable Energy Storage
• Mine Resource Utilization

Background:

• Growing renewable energy in China strains national grid stability.
• Need for large-scale, reliable energy storage solutions.
• Abandoned mines offer unique spatial resources for energy infrastructure.

Purpose of the Study:

• Propose an intelligent microgrid model using gravity energy storage in abandoned mines.
• Analyze the feasibility and economic viability of this concept.
• Provide recommendations for system development.

Main Methods:

• Investigated gravity energy storage principles and system structures.
• Examined subsurface powerhouse, underground storage, and transit systems.
• Assessed Panyidong Mine's resource, technical, economic, and social conditions.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated the practical viability of intelligent microgrids in abandoned mines.
• Confirmed good economic and social benefits for the Panyidong Mine project.
• Identified key influencing factors for system feasibility.

Conclusions:

• The proposed intelligent microgrid system is technically feasible and economically beneficial.
• Recommends development strategies considering technology, policy, and environment.
• Offers a novel approach for energy storage advancement and mine resource reuse.