OverviewAdvantages over other energy storage methodsCurrent useSystem architectureWorking principleSolenoid versus toroidLow-temperature versus high-temperature superconductorsCost
There are several reasons for using superconducting magnetic energy storage instead of other energy storage methods. The most important advantage of SMES is that the time delay during charge and discharge is quite short. Power is available almost instantaneously and very high power output can be provided for a brief period of time. Other energy storage methods, such as pumped hydro or compressed air, have a substantial time delay associated with the energy conversion