In the rolling hills of Devon, a quiet revolution is underway. RheEnergise, a UK-based energy storage company, has successfully launched its first 500kW high-density hydro energy-storage project, marking a significant step forward in the quest for long-duration energy storage (LDES) solutions. The project, supported by engineering consultancy 42 Technology, is now producing full power as designed, demonstrating the potential of this innovative approach to energy storage.
The Cornwood project is the first real-world test site for RheEnergise’s unique energy-storage solution. Unlike traditional pumped hydro schemes, which require specific geographical conditions, this system uses a proprietary high-density working fluid. This innovation allows storage to be deployed in locations previously unsuitable for hydro schemes, opening up new possibilities for energy storage across the globe.
42 Technology played a pivotal role in the project, working closely with RheEnergise’s engineering teams in the UK and Canada. Their involvement spanned planning, risk reduction, detailed system design, process automation, and control-system programming. They also supported the equipment build phase and helped establish a semi-automated plant to manufacture the environmentally friendly fluid. This plant has proven its ability to produce the fluid at scale, preparing consistent batches for transfer into the main reservoir.
Dr Peter Brown, 42 Technology’s chief commercial officer, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Our work with RheEnergise has been a great example of engineering innovation with real potential to change the world for the better. It’s exciting to see their first ever high-density hydro project is now producing full power, at the predicted output and on a consistent basis.”
For RheEnergise, the successful commissioning of the 500 kW demonstrator is a major milestone. The project uses a fluid 2.5 times denser than water, offering a novel approach to LDES. Tamás Bertényi, RheEnergise’s chief technology officer, highlighted the significance of this achievement, saying, “Commissioning our 500 kW demonstrator is a major step in proving our unique approach as a practical LDES solution. 42 Technology’s process design and automation experience has been vital in getting us to this point, and validating our fluid-production method under real-world conditions.”
The successful launch of this project could have far-reaching implications for the energy sector. As the world grapples with the challenges of integrating renewable energy sources into the grid, the need for effective LDES solutions has become increasingly pressing. RheEnergise’s innovative approach, validated by this demonstrator, could pave the way for a new generation of energy storage systems. These systems could help balance supply and demand, ensure grid stability, and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future.
Moreover, the project underscores the power of collaboration in driving innovation. By bringing together expertise from different fields and geographies, RheEnergise and 42 Technology have demonstrated what can be achieved when diverse teams work together towards a common goal. This interdisciplinary approach could serve as a model for future projects in the energy sector and beyond.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for innovative, flexible, and scalable storage solutions will only grow. The Cornwood project is a testament to the potential of high-density hydro energy storage and a beacon of hope for a future powered by clean, renewable energy. The sector will be watching closely as RheEnergise and 42 Technology continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in energy storage.