Shaftricity
Shaftricity is a pioneering energy storage initiative that repurposes disused mine shafts to create low-cost, long-duration gravitational batteries. By using surplus renewable energy to lift heavy weights within deep vertical shafts, and then releasing that energy by lowering the weights to generate electricity when needed, Shaftricity provides a sustainable solution for balancing the grid and supporting the UK's transition to Net Zero.
Shaftricity is a pioneering clean energy initiative based in Cornwall that transforms disused mine shafts into innovative underground energy storage systems. By raising and lowering heavy weights within these deep shafts, we can store excess renewable electricity and release it when demand on the grid is high — using the power of gravity as a sustainable alternative to traditional batteries.
This approach enables low-cost, long-duration energy storage without the need for new land, rare materials, or large-scale infrastructure. It offers a unique way to repurpose Cornwall’s rich mining heritage to support the UK’s Net Zero ambitions, increase grid resilience, and reduce renewable energy waste.
Once proven, the Shaftricity model has the potential to scale across the UK and internationally, delivering clean energy, economic regeneration, and environmental benefit from legacy mining infrastructure.