Ellergy is a cutting-edge energy storage system that addresses the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. Utilizing a vacuum-based approach inspired by atmospheric pressure principles, Ellergy stores surplus energy during peak renewable output and releases it during periods of low generation. Unlike conventional methods, our system is free from geographical constraints, allowing for scalable deployment in diverse environments. Ellergy provides an eco-friendly and reliable energy storage solution, effectively balancing the grid to support a sustainable energy future.
Overview
Why Energy Storage?
Renewable energy sources like wind and solar are inherently intermittent, making energy storage crucial for grid stability. Traditional methods, such as pumped hydro, are effective but face environmental and geographical limitations. In contrast, vacuum-based energy storage systems, like Ellergy, operate independently of terrain, offering a versatile solution to the challenges of integrating renewable energy into the grid. By harnessing atmospheric pressure and vacuum technology, Ellergy enables a sustainable and adaptable approach to large-scale energy storage.
Existing Approaches and Gaps
Despite the growth of renewable energy, existing storage solutions have limitations:
- Pumped Hydro Storage: Effective but requires specific geographical features, leading to high costs and environmental impact.
- Battery Storage: Suitable for short-term use but faces issues with lifespan, efficiency degradation, and environmental disposal challenges.
- Compressed Air Energy Storage: Requires extensive infrastructure and is limited by location and energy loss during conversion. These challenges underscore the need for innovative energy storage solutions that are both adaptable and sustainable.
Our Solution
Ellergy uses a piston and plunger mechanism within a sealed vacuum chamber to store energy. During periods of excess renewable energy, the piston creates a vacuum, storing the energy as potential energy through a pressure differential with the atmosphere. When needed, the stored energy is released as atmospheric pressure pushes the piston back, providing a stable energy supply. This vacuum-based system is scalable and environmentally friendly, addressing the limitations of traditional storage methods while offering high energy efficiency.
Design Process
Our journey began by exploring the concept of vacuum-based energy storage using a piston and plunger setup. Initially, the energy density was low, leading us to enhance the pressure differential within the chamber. We iteratively improved the design, focusing on advanced sealing technologies and optimizing the piston mechanism to reduce energy loss. Through rigorous testing and prototyping, we developed a system capable of maintaining a vacuum over extended periods. Real-time sensors and control systems were integrated to monitor and adjust performance, ensuring efficient energy storage and release.
How It Is Different
Ellergy stands out by enabling energy storage without geographical or environmental constraints. Traditional systems like pumped hydro are limited by location, while battery storage faces issues with efficiency and disposal. Our vacuum-based technology operates independently of terrain, with no inherent energy loss. The continuous vacuum creation maximizes energy retention, offering a sustainable and adaptable storage solution. This unique approach ensures that Ellergy can be deployed in a wide range of environments, making it a versatile option for stabilizing renewable energy grids.
Our Achievements
Winner, Himalayan Startup Trek 2022 at IIT Mandi
Winner of the Smart India Hackathon 2022, recognized by the Government of India for developing innovative energy storage solutions.
Finalist and top 5 team in UMO's Design X Social Global Innovation Challenge 2022.
Our Partner
Future Plan
Our next step is to optimize the system's efficiency by enhancing pressure control and minimizing friction. We aim to develop a pilot product for residential and large-scale renewable installations. By partnering with renewable energy providers, we plan to validate Ellergy's performance in real-world scenarios, improving scalability and reducing costs. Our ultimate goal is to contribute to a sustainable energy landscape by providing reliable, eco-friendly storage solutions that support global renewable energy adoption.