Flywheel energy storage? Production begins and preparations for commercialization are underway
The American startup Qnetic is entering the next stage of developing its flywheel‑based energy storage technology. The company has begun preparations for low‑volume production of its first system – the Q500 – at a newly launched facility in Sacramento, California. This is an important step toward commercializing a solution that aims to compete with other long‑duration energy storage technologies.
A new approach to flywheel technology
Qnetic is developing a concept that significantly differs from traditional FESS systems. Conventional flywheel solutions are designed mainly for short‑duration operation and high power output. The New York–based startup proposes the opposite approach — greater energy capacity and longer operating time at moderate power.
The company’s first product, the Q500, in its target version is expected to offer:
- 500 kWh of capacity
- 125 kW of power
- up to 4 hours of operation at maximum power
- up to 12 hours of operation at lower load
At the initial stage, however, the devices will operate with reduced capacity (100–200 kWh). This is intended to allow safe data collection and gradual parameter increases — primarily rotor speed, which directly affects stored energy.
Next generations already in development
The Q500 is only the beginning. The company is already working on a more advanced version of the system (provisionally called Q1), which will build on the same technological architecture. The key solutions have already been patented and will be used in future iterations of the product.
Intensive development and field testing
The next two years will be crucial for validating the technology. Qnetic plans extensive testing in cooperation with research and industry partners, including:
- National Lab of the Rockies
- Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI)
- U.S. grid operators and energy producers
The goal is to test the systems in various applications — from grid stabilization to supporting renewable energy integration. The first demonstration installations are expected as early as 2026, with pilot projects planned for 2026–2027 in cooperation with major energy companies.
Funding and global expansion
The startup is steadily building its financial base. In 2025, it raised more than $7 million, part of which came from crowdfunding. The company is continuing this funding model in 2026, launching a new round targeting $5 million.
Ultimately, Qnetic plans to raise around $20 million to finance further technology development and market entry.
Interestingly, the company deliberately relies on community‑based financing, citing:
- greater accessibility for individual investors
- increased brand visibility
- lower capital acquisition costs
Presence in key markets
Qnetic is expanding internationally. In addition to the U.S., it already has technology centers and offices in:
- Shanghai
- Singapore
- Germany
China is currently the main location for technology testing, while earlier prototypes have already been installed and analyzed in Europe — including Germany.
Are flywheels making a comeback?
Flywheel‑based energy storage has long been considered a niche technology. However, the growing demand for stable, long‑duration energy storage may change this trend.
If Qnetic successfully proves the performance of its technology in real‑world conditions, flywheels could become an interesting alternative to lithium‑ion batteries — especially where durability, safety, and long operating time are key.
The coming years will show whether this concept has the potential for broader deployment in power systems.