Kites serve a variety of functions, be it as a tool for education and scientific research or simply as a recreational pastime. Now, they are being hailed as a significant breakthrough in the world of renewable energy. One company is utilizing a new form of power kite that taps into wind energy far more efficiently than traditional wind turbines.
Power kites: Taking to the skies for a sustainable future
To tackle the challenges associated with the deployment of rapid renewable energy technologies—namely scalability and cost-effectiveness—SkySails Power, a company based in Hamburg, Germany, has developed a new form of Airborne Wind Energy Systems (AWES). These systems utilize power kites, which have the potential to produce electricity around the clock.
Here’s how these kites work: measuring between 1,291 and 2,583 square feet in size, they are engineered to fly in figure-eight patterns, which maximize their lift and enhance their power generation capabilities. As the lightweight plastic cable connected to it unwinds, the kite ascends to altitudes of up to 1,312 feet.
Once the kite reaches its desired altitude, it dives to allow the cable to retract, all while generating electricity through a connect winch system. As you can tell, the process is akin to yo-yo, whereby the pulling force of the cable drives a generator.
One of the standout features of this AWES is its fully automated flying robot, which functions independently in a compartment beneath the kite, similar to a paraglider’s pilot. It autonomously manages the entire energy generation process, thus optimizing flight paths based on real-time environmental conditions.
Germany sees huge potential in these kites for wind energy expansion
So far, SkySails Power has deployed its kite-based AWES in countries such as Mauritius, Taiwan, and the Philippines, where traditional wind energy options are scarce. Launched in 2023, these devices currently produce around 400 megawatt-hours annually, which is sufficient to power between 200 and 400 households. Although the company aims to enhance this output, it still shows substantial promise in renewable energy generation.
After undergoing successful testing, the kite system has received certification from Windtest Grevenbroich GmbH, confirming its effectiveness as a reliable high-altitude wind energy solution.
“We have a stable, high-altitude wind energy system that achieves reproducible results and are proud to have confirmed the world’s first verified and audited wind power curve,” Stephan Wrage, the founder of SkySails Power, said at the time.
Germany is particularly invested in this advancing energy source. The country has identified over 4,000 potential sites for this AWES. Most of these locations are unsuitable for conventional wind turbines, which tend to be large, heavy, and expensive to implement and maintain. They also can only reach heights of up to 656 feet. The recent amendment to the country’s Renewable Energy Sources to include onshore wind technology bolsters the shift toward this viable energy solution.
SkySails Power’s kites face some regulatory roadblocks
Although these low-cost kites can operate in low-wind regions and under extreme weather conditions, there are still challenges regarding Germany’s existing airspace regulations.
“German airspace is very busy. If we reach the 2,460 feet, we become an obstacle,” explained Wrage.
As such, SkySails Power will need to work closely with German aviation authorities to ensure the safe operation of their kites at higher altitudes. That way, their innovative systems can coexist with existing air traffic, maximizing both energy production and flight safety.
Regardless, SkySails Power’s power kites represent a beacon of hope in the renewable energy landscape. With the potential to transform energy generation while minimizing environmental impact, these devices may lead us towards a sustainable future. Truly, the sky’s the limit!