Solution

Kitemill develops kite turbines

A kite turbine harvest energy from winds higher up from the surface. The key difference from a traditional wind turbine is that the kite turbine handles the forces in a smarter way. This make it possible to produces the equal power with only a small part of the materials. Reducing the amount of materials also allows operation in higher altitudes. The higher up from the surface, the better wind resources are available. See “the principle” for a more detailed description.

Technology qualification

Kitemill's consept was evaluated by Det Norske Veritas (DNV-GL) back in 2010 and the report concluded that the concept was feasable. Kitemill still follows DNV-GL "Best practis" procedure for technology  qualification.

Technology development

Kitemill currently operates a small prototype. This represent a safe and efficient way to utilize the principle and an excellent tool to develop the necessary functionality. The prototype consist of a 3,8 m wingspan kite connected to a 5 kW ground station. A landing platform allows the kite to dock in and land. The winch is installed in a barrack, which also works as operational central containing workplaces for up to 5 persons, a important feature in this stage when much of the development happens on the test site.

Currently the prototype being scaled-up to a pilot plant. This plant shall operate continuously feeding energy back to the grid.

The demonstration plant will be the first plant in commercial production: 

KITE

7.5m wingspan

4 propellers for vertical takeoff and landing

WINCH

30kW nominal power

7500 N nominal traction force

4 m / s nominal feed out rate

OPERATING PARAMETERS

5 m / s wind - start production (cut-in)

12 m / s wind - full power