ALTERNATIVE ENERGY FORUM - etc.

@Jswm
I did have an idea like that, way way, back.
But I have a friend who has a masters in physics I consulted and he did the math and It just wasn't very good. It did allow you to STORE the energy from a solar cell or a wind turbine over night and use it when ever you wished , so I guess it fills that function. I used 55 gallons of water for the weights (440 pounds).
I had one version that would pump the water out of my pond and store it about 100 feet up in 55 gallon drums, then allow the falling drum to turn an alternator to generate electricity. The drum would empty itself at the bottom so it could be raised with less power.
All on paper.