Introduction  As one of the new energy storage technologies, vertical gravity energy storage has become a research hotspot in the field of energy storage because of its high safety and environmental friendliness. Systems based on the traditional rotary motors can only transport a single heavy load and cannot meet the various power level requirements of the power grid by changing the number of different loads transported. The application of linear motors, however, can effectively address this issue. Therefore, the vertical gravity energy storage systems using linear motors have garnered significant attention.

  Method  This paper introduced the basic working principle of vertical gravity energy storage systems using linear motors and summarized the current system structures and the design of linear motors within these systems.

  Result  The results show that due to the long-distance movement of the vertical gravity energy storage device and the large mass of the load block, a linear motor with large thrust and magnet and coil windings mounted on the mover is required. Current research focuses on consequent-pole linear vernier hybrid machines, flux-switched permanent magnet linear motors, and linear switched reluctance motors. All three types of motors are suitable for vertical gravity energy storage systems due to their unique characteristics and advantages.

  Conclusion  It is evident that compared with the traditional rotary motor systems, systems using linear motors offer numerous advantages, and will gradually become the mainstream solution for vertical gravity energy storage technology. Given the system characteristics of vertical gravity energy storage, the selection of linear motors is crucial. If the structure of linear motors is specifically designed for vertical energy storage systems, the excellent performance of the storage system will be better leveraged to promote the widespread application of vertical gravity energy storage technology.