Frequency Regulation and the Smart Energy Matrix™

The Smart Energy Matrix™ is a design concept for multi-flywheel-based energy storage systems that would provide a long-term sustainable solution for frequency regulation on the electricity grid. Based on Beacon’s Patented Co-mingled Rim Technology® (PCRT) flywheel design for robustness and reliability, its performance specification calls for providing megawatts of reliable and responsive stored energy to meet the growing needs of grid operators. The core flywheel component of both Smart Energy Matrix™ systems will be a new, 4th-generation 25 kWh/100 kW model, optimized to perform frequency regulation services. Its patented long-life, low-maintenance design and highly cyclic capability is intended to deliver a clean, emissions-free, cost-effective alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based frequency regulation methods.

To learn more about grid frequency regulation and how Beacon technology is well suited to provide the service, watch these two short movies:

Smart Energy Matrix™ 20 MW Frequency Regulation Plant

This full-scale facility is designed to provide an important revenue-generating service, while at the same time help facilitate increased use of renewable energy sources, reduce air pollution, and make the grid more reliable. Comprising 200 high-speed, high-energy flywheels and associated electronics, when fully equipped each plant will be able to provide 20 megawatts of “up and down” regulation – equal to a 40-megawatt swing.

Take a virtual tour of the 20 MW flywheel plant >

Smart Energy Matrix™ Demonstration Systems

View pictures of the demonstration system shipment to California >

View pictures of the demonstration system installation in California >

View pictures of the demonstration system shipment and installation in New York >