It is weird and counterintuitive, but has been demonstrated as a success. In pumped hydro storage facilities, they pump water up to a natural or man-made water body, using cheap electricity. Then, when the demand for electricity peaks — such as in the evenings — they release the water, which turns the turbines as it gushes down. This is classic hydro-storage.
Can you imagine water put underground, for the same purpose. Texas-based start-up Quindet Energy wants to do exactly that. Its idea is to pump water down into impermeable rock formations and keep it under pressure. When released, the water flows up under the pressure. “It’s like pumped hydro, upside down,” says CEO Joe Zhou.
The start-up describes its amazing idea in three simple sentences.
When there is surplus electricity, it is used to pump water from a pond down a well and held under pressure. The well is closed, keeping the energy stored under pressure for as long as needed. When electricity is needed, the well is opened to let the pressurised water pass through a turbine to generate electricity, and return to the pond ready for the next cycle.
Published on September 22, 2025
