An Electric Double Layer Capacitor (EDLC), also known as a Supercapacitor, is a high-capacity capacitor that bridges the gap between electrolytic capacitors and rechargeable batteries. Their main function is to store and release electrical energy, much like a battery. However, Supercaps can charge and discharge much faster than batteries, making them ideal in situations where a large burst of power is needed quickly. Due to their high power density, they can deliver these quick electric charges without significant energy loss.

EDLCs are excellent for use in applications such as power backup, memory protection, and energy harvesting from renewable resources. Thanks to their rapid charge/discharge ability and long cycle life, they are found in a variety of applications from small electronics like smartphones and laptops to large scale industrial applications like wind turbines and automotive. Major manufacturers producing Electric Double Layer Capacitors include Maxwell Technologies, Panasonic Corporation, and AVX Corporation.