Wind power energy for cellular base stations

[dacha]

Actually, if we can get rid of the power spikes then we can solve our immediate problem.

Our power spike consumption is ridiculous, when 17H30 rolls around, the coal plants are pushed to peak and extra massive generators are brought to life to get enough juice into the lines for the suppertime splurge.

If we could build a massive and decent power storage unit that can be fed during off-peak times and then utilised later to provide the extra boost electricity required, then we'd be plain sailing.

I have often wondered why we don't just crank a massive chunk of concrete into the sky, or even a massive body of water into a massive container, and then let it's weight generate the extra electricity as it is allowed to fall when required.

We already use it:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drakensberg_Pumped_Storage_Scheme
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ingula_Pumped_Storage_Scheme

Compressed air energy storage also seems like a good idea. Wonder if anybody's developed a version you can use at home?

 

[Archer]

Everyone who keeps pushing solar power, you do realise that currently it requires more energy to produce a solar panel than what it will yield over its lifetime? You are actually adding to the problem. Solar panels need to become more efficient, either in the production process (use less power to make) or in converting solar energy to electricity (create more power). Until that happens solar power is not the answer.

 

[davemc]

dacha, you're my hero. Thanks for that.
So, therefore it would seem that those two projects are simply not big enough.
But, you have given me a little more insight into some of Eskom's projects.

 

[FrancTheTank]

Everyone who keeps pushing solar power, you do realise that currently it requires more energy to produce a solar panel than what it will yield over its lifetime? You are actually adding to the problem. Solar panels need to become more efficient, either in the production process (use less power to make) or in converting solar energy to electricity (create more power). Until that happens solar power is not the answer.

I wanted to bring that up too, thanks Archer!