KPS Technology

Product Description

KPS (Kite Power Solutions) has the idea of generating electricity using kite technology. The kites are programmed to fly at high altitudes in a figure eight, accessing stronger wind speeds that generate lift for continuous energy generation. They aim to provide energy at a cost lower than conventional wind turbine energy, using 85% less material. Based on UK annual domestic energy usage, a KPS system can power 380 homes per year. The product is still in prototype phase.

Target Users (Target Impact Group)

Distributors / Implementing Organizations

KPS aims to commercialize this technology by 2023. KPS plans to deploy its first 500 kW onshore power system at West Freugh, South West Scotland.

Manufacturing/Building Method

The system is being developed in Stranraer, South West Scotland.

Intellectural Property Type

Patent Protected

User Provision Model

The product will be installed at specified locations to harness wind energy which will then be transmitted to the desired end-use sector.

Distributions to Date Status

KPS expects testing the kite in 2021 and the commercial deployment of the product by 2023.

Design Specifications

The system consists of two kites, with one of the two always generating power. The kites are programmed to fly in a figure eight pattern, accessing stronger wind speeds that generate lift. The tension induced results in a 100-200 m line spooled out from a drum on the ground, which is connected to a generator. While one kite is in the generation phase the other is in the retraction phase, to ensure continuous production of energy. In the generation phase, the tether is unreeled from a drum which produces electricity while the retraction phase reels in the tether of the kite.

Technical Support

Kites are reeled in and maintained at ground level. All components can be serviced at an accessible height.

Replacement Components

Unknown

Lifecycle

Unknown

Manufacturer Specified Performance Parameters

The design aims to provide energy at a lower cost than a conventional wind turbine and use 85% less energy. KPS also aims to generate 15% more energy than a wind turbine at the same location.

Vetted Performance Status

Unknown

Safety

Potential hazards related to the operation of this product include the risk of bird collisions and an impact on the natural heritage of the region. The visual obstruction to the surrounding landscape must also be considered.

Complementary Technical Systems

None

Academic Research and References

These papers present general information about Kite Powered Systems:

Van der Vlugt, R., Peschel, J. and Schmehl R., 2013, Design and experimental characterization of a pumping kite power system, Ahrens, U., Diehl, M. and Schmehl, R., eds. Airborne Wind Energy Berlin: Springer.

Maass, J. and Erhard, M., 2013, Software system architecture for control of tethered kites, Ahrens, U., Diehl, M., Schmehl, R., eds. Airborne Wind Energy, Berlin: Springer, pp. 599–611.

Compliance with regulations

Unknown

Other Information

KPS predicts that the technology might not require government subsidies as the cost of energy from its offshore installments will be significantly lower than conventional offshore wind turbines.