What is a flywheel energy storage system?

Flywheel systems are kinetic energy storage devices that react instantly when needed. By accelerating a cylindrical rotor (flywheel) to a very high speed and maintaining the energy in the system as rotational energy, flywheel energy storage systems can moderate fluctuations in grid demand.

What is flywheel technology?

Flywheel technology is a method of energy storage that uses the principles of rotational kinetic energy. A flywheel is a mechanical device that stores energy by spinning a rotor at very high speeds.

What is the difference between a flywheel and a battery storage system?

Flywheel Systems are more suited for applications that require rapid energy bursts, such as power grid stabilization, frequency regulation, and backup power for critical infrastructure. Battery Storage is typically a better choice for long-term energy storage, such as for renewable energy systems (solar or wind) or home energy storage.

How does a flywheel retain energy?

Energy Storage: The flywheel continues to spin at high speed, maintaining energy as long as friction and resistance are minimized. The longer it spins, the more energy it holds, similar to how the skater retains rotational energy as they keep spinning.

Are flywheel systems a good choice for solar power generation?

Flywheel systems are ideal for this form of energy time-shifting. Here’s why: Solar power generation peaks in the middle of the day, but energy demand peaks in the late afternoon and early evening. Flywheels can quickly absorb excess solar energy during the day and rapidly discharge it as demand increases.

Why should you use a flywheel?

Flywheels can quickly absorb excess solar energy during the day and rapidly discharge it as demand increases. Their fast response time ensures energy can be dispatched as needed, preventing grid instability. Flywheels excel in short-duration storage applications, typically less than four hours.