New way of flywheel energy storage

Could flywheels be the future of energy storage?

Flywheels, one of the earliest forms of energy storage, could play a significant role in the transformation of the electrical power system into one that is fully sustainable yet low cost.

How does a flywheel energy storage system work?

Based on the aforementioned research, this paper proposes a novel electric suspension flywheel energy storage system equipped with zero flux coils and permanent magnets. The newly developed flywheel energy storage system operates at high speeds with self-stability without requiring active control.

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 much energy does a flywheel store?

Indeed, the development of high strength, low-density carbon fiber composites (CFCs) in the 1970s generated renewed interest in flywheel energy storage. Based on design strengths typically used in commercial flywheels, σmax /ρ is around 600 kNm/kg for CFC, whereas for wrought flywheel steels, it is around 75 kNm/kg.

What are some new applications for flywheels?

Other opportunities for flywheels are new applications in energy harvest, hybrid energy systems, and flywheel’s secondary functionality apart from energy storage. The use of new materials and compact designs will increase the specific energy and energy density to make flywheels more competitive to batteries.

How does a flywheel work?

Here’s a breakdown of the process: Energy Absorption: When there’s surplus electricity, such as when the grid is overproducing energy, the system uses that excess power to accelerate the flywheel. This energy is stored as kinetic energy, much like how the figure skater speeds up their spin by pulling in their arms.