In classical physics, potential energy is regarded as a form of energy capable of transforming into other forms, such as kinetic energy. However, when examining potential energy at either cosmic or microscopic scales, we find that it is not a tangible form of energy that can be directly harnessed. Fundamentally, potential energy represents the curvature of space; it does not supply energy to an object but rather acts as an intermediary that facilitates the conversion between internal and external energy. While this new concept of potential energy does not alter established energy calculation formulas, it offers solutions to problems concerning mass defect, as well as insights into the structure of spacetime and the workings of the universe.