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How to repurpose degraded post-mine sites into modern energy storage facilities? That is the question faced by GrEnMine, an international initiative aimed at developing a new type of infrastructure that supports energy transformation in Europe. The AGH University of Krakow, and more specifically the Centre of Energy, is involved in the project, being in charge of the preparation of complex mathematical models and analysis of post-mine areas.
New energy for abandoned areas
GrEnMine (Gravitational Energy storage in the post-Mine areas) is a visionary research and implementation project that repurposes former mining areas to store energy with the use of gravity. The technology operates by moving large masses, for example, concrete or steel blocks, up and down, according to supply and demand. Unlike battery energy storage systems, gravity-based solutions are more environmentally friendly, have a longer service life, and do not generate waste that is difficult to dispose of.
AGH University’s tasks: from the ground up to the future of regions
Our team is responsible for a key stage related to the development of detailed geotechnical models of post-mining areas and identifying the potential of locations. Krakow experts analyse the stability of the ground and the possibilities for safely placing heavy energy storage systems in specific locations.
“The establishment of a Polish gravity-based energy storage facility is a significant step toward energy independence and the transformation of our post-mine regions. As a result, we reclaim degraded sites and give them a purpose in the green economy. However, these systems cannot be located anywhere; they require certain geotechnical conditions and a difference in ground level,” explains Professor Marek Cała, leader of the AGH University team part of GrEnMine.
Although gravitational energy storage technologies are currently being developed in several locations around the world, e.g. in Switzerland (Energy Vault), the Great Britain (Gravitricity) or the USA (ARES, Gravity Power), GrEnMine is one of the first projects carried out in the EU.
GrEnMine partners are the Wrocław University of Science and Technology, the AGH University of Krakow, PGE Górnictwo i Energetyka Konwencjonalna SA, Poltegor-Instytut, VUHU a.s., the University of Petrosani, the Technical University of Crete, Four Point Sp. z o.o., LTGNTTORYCHETA Achladas A.E., and Societatea Complexul Energetic Oltenia SA.
The project is funded by the Research Fund for Coal & Steel (RFCS). It will end in June 2027 and its objective is to develop scalable energy storage technology.
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