Yes, but only once. This is energy storage not energy source for the purpose of human utility. The ability to pull that 1kw of potential energy back up (with so

Yes, but only once. This is energy storage not energy source for the purpose of human utility. The ability to pull that 1kw of potential energy back up (with some renewable source eg wind turbine) to be output over again is where the comparison breaks down. A fairer comparison is current battery tech, you can pack something like 40kwh in 200kg of batteries (rough guess based on leaf ev battery modules). So vastly more in the same space/weight. But those are complex and energy intensive to manufacture, and have limited lifespans before further energy investment is required to recycle/replace them. The relative simplicity and long lifespan of gravity storage seems like it has potential. Not to mention the potential for owner/operator to self install, which could be great for developing nations.