WELL-BASED POTENTIAL ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS AND METHODS

Potential energy conversion systems include a movable mass suspended by a line in a non-producing well, the line being coupled to a motor operable to lift the movable mass, and a generator operable to produce electricity when lowering the movable mass. Energy conversion methods include providing the potential energy conversion system; and storing potential energy by raising the movable mass, or releasing potential energy and converting the potential energy to electricity by lowering the movable mass.