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Vaal University of Technology, Vanderbijlpark, Sou th Africa. Abstract - This study gives a critical review of flywheel energy storage systems and their feasibility in various applications. Flywheel energy storage systems have gained increased popularity as a method of environmentally friendly energy storage.
However, the high cost of purchase and maintenance of solar batteries has been a major hindrance. Flywheel energy storage systems are suitable and economical when frequent charge and discharge cycles are required. Furthermore, flywheel batteries have high power density and a low environmental footprint.
The city of Fresno in California is running flywheel storage power plants built by Amber Kinetics to store solar energy, which is produced in excess quantity in the daytime, for consumption at night. Intermittent nature of variable renewable energy is another challenge.
QuinteQ developed a containerized flywheel energy storage system (Figure 1) that reduces peak power demand of electric cranes by up to 65%. The demonstration concluded in April 2024 at the Rhenus Waalhaven Terminal in Rotterdam. 1. QuinteQ's flywheel is safe, compact, and can be placed in a regular shipping container.
Research by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA, 2020) identifies Costa Rica as a potential leader in solar energy within Central America, given its high solar potential averaging 4.5-5.5 kWh/m²/day, yet notes that policy incentives lag behind those for other renewables.
Solar energy, though currently a minor player, offers untapped potential to enhance Costa Rica's energy security. The country's tropical climate ensures consistent sunlight, making solar PV systems ideal for both utility-scale and distributed generation.
While hydroelectric power dominates the energy mix at approximately 80% of electricity production, solar energy, though currently a smaller contributor, holds significant potential to diversify and stabilize the grid. This paper investigates Costa Rica's renewable energy journey, emphasizing solar power's evolving role.
According to the Costa Rican Institute of Electricity (ICE) and the Costa Rican National Power and Light Company (CNFL), both government entities, the target market for solar energy in Costa Rica, remains to be households or companies that consume between 200kw/h and 3,000kw/h. ICE and CNFL have been installing photovoltaic systems.
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