Building on the momentum of its successful operations in Bangor Erris, County Mayo, Ireland, Airborne Wind Europe’s member Kitepower is advancing rapidly toward the commercialization of its Airborne Wind Energy (AWE) technology.
With over 120 test flights completed at the site in collaboration with RWE, the Dutch AWE company has refined its system, demonstrating its reliability and potential for both on-grid and off-grid applications.
Now, with plans to expand to island communities, implement a new internship program, and push for standardised airspace regulations, Kitepower is solidifying its leadership in the AWE sector.
Heading to island communities: La Gomera as the first deployment
Kitepower is taking a significant step forward with the launch of its first island pilot project in La Gomera, Canary Islands. The system will be tested to supply green energy to residents, showcasing how AWE can serve island communities with sustainable and flexible power.
This project represents a key milestone in the company’s path to commercialization, highlighting the adaptability and efficiency of its Kite Battery Energy Storage System (K-BESS).
The K-BESS, now integrated with a 400kWh battery, allows for greater energy storage capacity and more consistent power delivery. This innovation strengthens the viability of AWE for island environments, where traditional grid connections are often limited.
By demonstrating the feasibility of this system in La Gomera, Kitepower aims to pave the way for wider adoption in remote and off-grid locations.
Ongoing success in Bangor Erris: 120+ flights and counting
The test site in Bangor Erris continues to play a crucial role in refining Kitepower’s technology. With over 120 successful test flights completed, the site has been instrumental in optimizing operational efficiency and endurance.
These trials are not only proving the reliability of the system but also building the foundation for large-scale deployment across diverse environments, including islands and remote construction sites.
While island communities are a primary focus for future deployment, the work in Bangor Erris remains a critical development phase. The steady cadence of flights, combined with the collaboration with RWE, ensures that Kitepower’s AWE systems are rigorously tested and continuously improved.
Standardising airspace regulations with the Irish Aviation Authority
Regulatory support is crucial for the integration of AWE into mainstream energy solutions. Kitepower is actively working with the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) to establish clear and standardized airspace regulations for Airborne Wind Energy. This collaboration aims to facilitate the safe and scalable deployment of kite-based systems across Europe, ensuring their seamless integration into regulated airspace.
By working alongside aviation authorities, Kitepower is helping to shape a regulatory framework that will allow AWE systems to be deployed more widely. This effort is essential to foster investor confidence and accelerate the transition to AWE as a mainstream innovative renewable energy solution.
Investing in the future: Kitepower’s internship program
Beyond technological advancements, Kitepower is committed to attracting and training the next generation of engineers. To support this goal, the company has launched an internship program that offers young engineers hands-on experience with cutting-edge AWE technology at the test site in Ireland.
By immersing interns in real-world applications of AWE, Kitepower is cultivating talent that will contribute to the long-term growth of the industry. This initiative aligns with its broader mission to drive innovation, sustainability, and expertise in renewable energy.
