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A Flywheel based U.P.S.?

We have all heard of storing solar or wind energy by various means--say, either as heat or electricity. The company behind this site is developing a system for using flywheels to store large amounts power for emergency use in the form of mechanical energy, and at a cost rivaling diesel generator/battery systems. While this is not a new idea, they claim that their system would overcome some of the mechanical and safety issues associated with large energy-storage flywheels. Using magnetic bearings and electronic controls, they claim that the total power "make-up" to maintain the flywheel at speed would only be about 2 watts. Other models could eventually be built for smaller buildings, homes and vehicles. Colorful illustrations and explanatory text are provided, along with other alternative energy links which the reader will find of interest.

Tue, 29 Feb 2000 12:51:38 -0800

Submitted by: Carl T.