Levistor Flywheel: UK Rail Energy Savings Trial

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Introduction

Levistor, a UK-based energy technology company, has introduced a new flywheel energy storage technology designed for rail operators, with trials scheduled for late 2025 at Moreton-in-Marsh. This technology aims to reduce carbon emissions and offer long-term energy savings by capturing and reusing braking energy.

Technology Overview

The flywheel system captures energy lost during train braking, storing it as kinetic energy. This stored energy is then converted back into electricity to assist with acceleration. The technology is adapted from Levistor’s CycloCell, originally developed for ultra-rapid EV charging. Independent research from the University of Sheffield indicates that integrating such energy storage can reduce total system energy use by up to 24% in light rail networks.

Performance and Payback

Levistor estimates the technology could achieve payback in under four years for stations handling more than ten trains per hour. The system is designed with a lifespan exceeding 20 years. The flywheel technology is engineered to withstand over one million cycles without capacity loss, unlike lithium-ion batteries which typically degrade after around 3,000 cycles. A station serving ten trains per hour, with approximately 200 cycles daily, would be able to sustain consistent energy recovery for decades.

Benefits Beyond Electrification

Levistor emphasizes that while electrification is a crucial step in rail decarbonization, additional gains can be limited after the introduction of electric fleets. The flywheel technology provides a proven, long-life, and low-maintenance method for operators to significantly decrease energy consumption.

Future Applications

The technology is available for both rail and light rail networks, with Levistor positioning its flywheels as a sustainable energy solution for operators worldwide.

Conclusion

Levistor has developed a new flywheel energy storage technology for rail operators, with trials planned for Moreton-in-Marsh in late 2025. The technology aims to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, offering a long lifespan and potential for rapid payback.

Company Summary

Levistor: A UK-based energy technology company focused on developing flywheel energy storage solutions.

National Highways: A UK government-owned company responsible for operating, maintaining and improving England’s motorways and major A roads.

University of Sheffield: A public research university in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England.

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