TwingTec demonstrates automated operation of its airborne wind prototype

February 12, 2019 | Case Study

TwingTec is a young startup focused on the development of airborne wind energy systems (AWES). Unlike competing approaches based on kites, the company uses a drone with a tethered wingspan of 15 m that is connected to a ground-based generator to produce electricity as it flies. The drone's operation has been fully automated, from initial launch toward optimum altitudes (generally between 150 m and 300 m) to safe landing if the wind conditions are not favorable. TwingTec is still at a piloting stage of development, but has recently claimed a commercialization benchmark and is planning to launch a 100 kW system in the next two to three years.