Purpose. It is necessary to study the formalization of approaches to determination of energy reserves of aerial ropeways drives taking into account the twisting forces diagrams. Methodology. To determine the energy reserves the twisting forces diagrams were used. A method is based on the comparative analysis of areas of braking and power operation modes of ropeway drive. Their area depends on the road profile (length and overfall of clearance heights, carrying rope deflection) and location of the drive station (on the lower or the upper supporting points). Findings. The application of the method of energy accumulation in the braking mode with its subsequent consumption in the power mode enables to use the energy reserves of drives. Taking into account the relief, it is possible on the stage of planning to set the parameters the road profile, as well as to locate the drive station so that on the twisting forces diagram the areas of braking mode alternated with the areas of the power mode and were approximately equal in size. This, in turn, will save the electric power in the process of operation. Originality. The approach to determination of energy reserves of the aerial ropeway drives is offered. Practical value. The use of the offered method will help (before the construction) to calculate such a road profile, which will increase the areas of braking mode. The latter in turn will positively affect the size of the accumulated energy.