APR 09

High altitude wind power systems continue to be explored with new systems and new approaches. The latest comes from Altaeros Energies, who recently tested the Altaeros Airborne Wind Turbine (AWT), a prototype 35-foot diameter, helium-filled, tethered structure with an onboard turbine. The prototype turbine is able to be transported and deployed from a trailer, which makes it potentially very useful for use at remote locations.

Using a Southwest Skystream turbine, the test model of the AWT was flown to an altitude of 350 feet where it produced more than twice the power as what is generated at a conventional tower height. The company is interested in developing high-altitude wind resources at elevations over 1,000 feet (over 300 meters) above the ground, where the winds are stronger and more regular.

According to the company, "The Altaeros AWT will displace expensive fuel used to power diesel generators at remote industrial, military, and village sites. In the long term, Altaeros plans to scale up the technology to reduce costs in the offshore wind market."

link: Altaeros Energies Press Release (PDF)

via: Ubergizmo

Comments (5)

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written by Matt Rings, April 12, 2012

Could've used this when I was with the Marines on detachment in the deserts of the Negev or in the Greek Mountains. We burned a LOT of diesel to power our needs. This would be a fast deployment for power. Is there a way to recycle the Helium? That stuff's getting more expensive all the time, too, as it's a non-renewable limited resource.

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written by JTheClivaz, April 15, 2012

It might be possible to produce Helium by firing Alpha Decay (two Protons and Two neutrons, essentially a Helium Nucleus) at Graphite (with the Delocalized elections) to produce helium.

I have no idea if it's possible though, It's just a theory.

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written by Al Ewing, April 15, 2012

It's possible that the company behind this could take advantage of the US Government's dunderheaded decision to sell off their helium reserves, assuming the infinitely precious gas hasn't already been snapped up by a party balloon company for the vital task of filling replicas of Donald Duck's head. One of many decisions I can't imagine humanity will ever regret.

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Why does this have a title field?
written by Ronan, April 15, 2012

Why wouldn't you just use hydrogen? It's not like there are passengers, it's renewable, cheaper and provides more lift.

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Birds?
written by Robert, June 11, 2012

Wonder what sort of solutions they've figured out for like birds and such. But then again if they want to use this technology in remote areas that might not be as much of a problem.

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