Flywheel energy storage system glossary

What are flywheel energy storage systems?

Flywheel energy storage systems (FESSs) are a type of energy storage technology that can improve the stability and quality of the power grid. Compared with other energy storage systems, FESSs offer numerous advantages, including a long lifespan, exceptional efficiency, high power density, and minimal environmental impact.

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.

What is a flywheel/kinetic energy storage system (fess)?

A flywheel/kinetic energy storage system (FESS) is a type of energy storage system that uses a spinning rotor to store energy. Thanks to its unique advantages such as long life cycles, high power density, minimal environmental impact, and high power quality such as fast response and voltage stability, FESS is gaining attention recently.

What are the potential applications of flywheel technology?

Flywheel technology has potential applications in energy harvesting, hybrid energy systems, and secondary functionalities apart from energy storage. Additionally, there are opportunities for new applications in these areas.

What is the function of a flywheel?

The basic function of the flywheel is to convert the mechanical energy for the end-use application, which is electrical energy. For this conversion, an electromechanical machine is required which could be a motor/generator set. Generator and motor: When the kinetic energy is being stored, the motor is used to drive the flywheel.

What is the operational mechanism of a flywheel?

The operational mechanism of a flywheel has two states: energy storage and energy release. Energy is stored in a flywheel when torque is applied to it. The torque increases the rotational speed of the flywheel; as a result, energy is stored. Conversely, the energy is released in the form of torque to the connected mechanical device .