Method of storing solar energy

Abstract

An amount of photosynthetically produced biomass such as wood is converted into charcoal and a substantial portion of the charcoal is permanently stored. The remaining residual amount is converted into energy or an energy source like hydrogen. The main portion of the charcoal remains in storage for sustainable energy supply by means of combustion reversal, however, may be utilized at any desired time for generating energy or an energy source like hydrogen.

1 . Method of storing solar energy with reducing the CO 2  content of air, characterized by the method steps of 
 (a) producing by photosynthesis an amount of biomass capable of forming charcoal;    (b) converting the amount of biomass into charcoal;    (c) permanently storing a substantial fraction of the charcoal and    (d) converting only the remaining portion of the charcoal into energy or an energy source.    
     
     
         2 . Method according to  claim 1 , characterized in that the remaining portion of the charcoal is utilized for producing hydrogen.  
     
     
         3 . Method according to  claim 1  or  2 , characterized in that the charcoal storage is effected under an inert gas.  
     
     
         4 . Method according to  claim 3 , characterized in that CO 2  is used as the inert gas.  
     
     
         5 . Method according to any one of  claims 1  to  4 , characterized in that the charcoal is stored in mine cavities.