Time is a measure of motion, rates and frequency.

Just like temperature is a measure of motion, degrees and amplitudes.

Instead of trying to think of space as nothing, try thinking of just nothing. What do you have?

No motion, therefore no measurements of distance, so still, like a temperature of absolute zero.

No boundaries, because that would require some relational aspect with what is bounded.

It seems to me, that if we try to describe either space, or nothing, we have the same qualities.

Now you say there is potential energy to space, but then you say energy is not real. It seems you want your cake and eat it too, concerning energy.

How is motion not a qualification of some specific aspect of energy, both in terms of direction and the quantity of what is in motion, ie, kinetic.

I would agree, If I didn't see a problem with trying to erase energy as some generating dynamic. One that once we specify it, becomes defined by that specificity, aka, information and measurement, but when those definitions erode, fade, the energy is shed. Even when lost, it doesn't cease to exist, just goes beyond our abilities to measure it.