Key enzyme in the regulation of glycerol uptake and metabolism (By similarity). Increases the binding of activated glucocorticoid-receptor to nuclei in the presence of ATP. ATP + glycerol = ADP + H(+) + sn-glycerol 3-phosphate Polyol metabolism; glycerol degradation via glycerol kinase pathway; sn-glycerol 3-phosphate from glycerol: step 1/1. Bound to the mitochondrial surface or cytoplasmic. Belongs to the FGGY kinase family.