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A state-of-the-art hybrid flywheel energy project in Rhode, Co Offaly has begun its trial phase. The trial was launched by EU Commissioner Phil Hogan, who said such technologies would be needed to strengthen grid efficiency and ensure renewable energy targets are met.
A hybrid flywheel is designed to provide stability and reliability to electricity grids that are powered by renewable energy sources such as wind or solar. Such systems are subject to energy surges depending on conditions and also need to be backed up by conventional systems for periods when energy generation is low.
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Flywheels aim to combat this by creating rotational energy that can be stored within the system until it is required. In comparison to batteries this energy does not degrade and it is hoped the system can help to reduce energy costs.
The project, operated by Irish company Schungrad Energie, has already received close to €3m in EU investment and will now be trialled for development commercially. It is being developed in association with German companies Adaptive Balancing Power and Freqcon and the University of Sheffield.
Speaking at the launch Commissioner Hogan said while Ireland is making good progress in renewable energy generation we need to improve storage capacity.
“This facility can make an important contribution to a sustainable energy future for Ireland and Europe," Hogan said.
The current trialling phase involves approximately six months work at the Rhode facility followed by a further six months at the University of Sheffield, after which it will be expanded to facilitate full commercial development.
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