Kitemill’s airborne wind energy device sets new record

Airborne wind energy (AWE) uses kite-like devices to harness more powerful and consistent winds than turbines, with a tether transforming the pull force from the kite to a ground-station generator. Kitemill’s KM1 pilot system recently covered more than 500km during five hours of continuous operation, setting what is claimed to be a new record for AWE.

“Our technology performed efficiently and robustly, despite challenging weather conditions,” said Kitemill CEO Thomas Hårklau. “The five hours and 32 minutes of uninterrupted operation included one landing due to low wind. When the wind picked up, the kite relaunched and continued until sunset. The next day, the kite flew for an additional three hours before landing, accumulating a total flight trajectory of over 500km with an average wing load exceeding 3,500N, corresponding to an aircraft with a 350kg payload. This is a strong performance offering an impressive benchmark when compared to general unmanned flying operations around the world.”