First of its kind high-density' hydro system begins generating electricity in Devon

"The pioneering technology means one of the oldest forms of energy storage, hydropower, can be used to store and release renewable energy using even gentle slopes rather than the steep dam walls and mountains that are usually required. The design means the principles of hydropower could be used as a form of long duration energy storage in many more locations across the UK, and the world, than traditional hydropower dams. The projects could be quicker and cheaper to build too."

"But instead the company's high-intensity hydro project uses a mineral-rich fluid, which has more than two and a half times the density of water, to create the same amount of electricity from slopes that are less than half as high. Stephen Crosher, the chief executive of RheEnergise, said the government-backed project was able to consistently meet its goal of generating 500 kilowatts, or enough electricity to power 400 homes for a year if run continually, in a vote of confidence for the technology"

The underground hydropower installation at Cornwood near Plymouth uses a mineral-rich, high-density fluid to store and generate electricity on gentle slopes. The fluid has more than two and a half times the density of water, permitting the same electricity output from slopes less than half the height required by traditional dams. The system mimics pumped-storage hydropower by pumping fluid uphill when supply is abundant and releasing it through turbines when supply is short. The demonstration consistently generated 500 kilowatts, roughly powering 400 homes for a year if run continuously. The design promises faster, cheaper builds and wider siting, with commercial projects planned in several countries.

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