akapital

Grid-based Energy Storage: Birth of a Giant

Regarding BCON, I don't have the numbers on cost per kwh but it must be competitive for the major grids to be considering their technology. It is now approved for use in three of the open-bid electricity markets in the U.S.

In addition to the fact that these fly wheels are highly responsive and cost-effective frequency regulation services, there is another important factor here that you do not mention. Flywheel-based energy storage systems, unlike lead-acid batteries, are sustainable “green” technology solutions that do not use hazardous materials for production, nor create them during operation. This is not merely a feel good technology (which is good enough reason) though as sustainable in this case also directly relates to cost reductions.

Unlike batteries, flywheels operate reliably for many years with little or no maintenance. Their life cycle cost benefits and ROI have proven to be far superior to those of lead-acid batteries. Despite higher initial costs, flywheels offer an attractive and long-term cost-effective energy storage alternative for the growing number of companies implementing sustainable business practices.