Gravity flywheel inertial energy storage generator

How does a flywheel energy storage system work?

Flywheel Energy Storage Systems (FESS) rely on a mechanical working principle: An electric motor is used to spin a rotor of high inertia up to 20,000-50,000 rpm. Electrical energy is thus converted to kinetic energy for storage. For discharging, the motor acts as a generator, braking the rotor to produce electricity.

Why are flywheels a vital element in energy-generating systems?

Since flywheels are featured by the smooth transition between energy import and export according to the amount of demanded energy, they are deemed as a vital element in energy-generating systems . Currently, FESSs offer rapid energy support in vast project scales, where economic feasibility is the dominant factor for their installation.

Are flywheel energy storages commercially available?

Flywheel energy storages are commercially available (TRL 9) but have not yet experienced large-scale commercialisation due to their cost disadvantages in comparison with battery storages (higher investment, lower energy density). Another challenge is the comparably high standby loss in FESS caused by the magnetic drag of the motor-generator.

Can flywheels stabilize power systems?

4.6. Grid Integration of RESs As a result of their high-speed response, flywheels, in combination with solar and wind energies, can stabilize power systems and mitigate their frequency fluctuations .