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VerdErg Renewable Energy recently engaged a University of Oxford MSc student to research our innovative Gyrerg technology. Completed in August 2024, this successful project developed a mathematical model to analyse the fundamental operation of Gyrerg, the results from which will be used to develop and optimise control strategies for the technology.
Gyrerg is a patented Gigawatt-scale energy generation and storage system concept. It comprises a large, compartmentalised annulus or disc floating on a captive air cushion and fitted with multiple sails whose orientation and aerofoil shape can be continuously adjusted. It can be sited offshore or floating in a circular trough of water onshore.
Gyrerg acts as a flywheel, storing rotational mechanical energy sourced from its sails or generated from surplus grid electricity, for example from wind farms. The stored rotational mechanical energy can be converted into electrical energy, via generators and exported on demand.
Image: Gyrerg can store energy from neighbouring offshore wind farms.
Gyrerg allows for the flooding of compartmentalised voids and pumping up the air cushion to increase the energy storage capacity at a constant rotational speed. When the voids are full and the rotational inertia is maximised, energy storage is increased by increasing the rotational speed.
Image: With sails, Gyrerg can generate wind energy as well as storing it
There were two main strands to the work completed by the University of Oxford:
Firstly, a mathematical model was created to describe the mechanics of the device, considering the effects of drag, the impact of additional sails and assessing the energy storage profile as a function of time.
Secondly, a cost model was presented together with an optimal control strategy, dictating when energy should be imported and exported in order to maximise the economics. The electricity demand might be considered a known function of time, but the more challenging problem is to incorporate uncertain forecasts, for example the weather, into this decision making. The work provided a platform to develop real-time optimisation strategies for managing the energy storage profile in the most efficient way.
VerdErg is excited for the continued development of Gyrerg conceptual technology. It has the potential to play a major role in the Net Zero transition, as well as helping to ensure national energy security. It will generate and store energy on a mega scale that is predictable, reliable and safe for the environment. It will also allow the National Grid to maximise the efficiency of wind and solar farms by reducing downtime needs due to supply and demand imbalances or network constraints.
VerdErg will continue to share updates on the technology’s progress. If you would like to find out more about Gyrerg, contact us directly or visit: https://www.verderg.com/gyrerg
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