Gravity Power Plant Feasibility: Explained

[deepthishan]

Is this really feasible? http://www.indianexpress.com/video/national/6/a-power-plant-running-on-gravity/7117

and if so, can anyone please explain to me how?

 

[turbo]

We already have power plants that run on gravity. They are called hydro-dams. The sun vaprorizes water. We dam up the rivers and streams that collect the water and use the head-differential to power turbine-generators.

 

[deepthishan]

Thank you Turbo! I did not understand the term gravity power plant

 

[russ_watters]

Typically when people say "gravity power plant", they mean a crackpot perpetual motion machine that uses unbalanced wheels or something of the sort. This particular video says nothing at all about how the power plant gets its energy, so we really don't know if it is something mundane or a crackpot perpetual motion machine scheme that doesn't work.

 

[PJC01]

I can say that the idea of a gravity power plant is indeed feasible. This concept utilizes the force of gravity to generate electricity, which is a renewable and clean source of energy. The basic principle behind this technology is the use of a large weight, such as a heavy block or water, that is lifted to a higher position and then released to fall back to its original position. This falling motion produces kinetic energy, which can then be converted into electrical energy through the use of turbines and generators.

There are several ways in which a gravity power plant can be built. One method is through the use of a pumped hydro storage system, where water is pumped from a lower reservoir to a higher one during periods of low energy demand, and then released to flow back down and generate electricity during periods of high demand. Another approach is through the use of a gravitational potential energy system, where a heavy block is lifted to a higher position using cranes or elevators and then released to generate electricity.

The main advantage of a gravity power plant is its ability to store energy, making it a reliable source of power that can be used on demand. It also has a low environmental impact and does not require any fuel, making it a sustainable and cost-effective option.

However, there are also some challenges and limitations to consider, such as the need for a suitable location with a significant change in elevation, and the high initial cost of building such a plant. Additionally, the efficiency of a gravity power plant is dependent on factors such as the height and weight of the lifting mechanism, as well as the efficiency of the turbines and generators.

In conclusion, a gravity power plant is a feasible technology that has the potential to contribute to our energy needs in a sustainable way. However, further research and development is needed to optimize its efficiency and address any technical challenges.