Khaberni - The "S1500" flying wind turbines, resembling a balloon, have become the largest of their kind in the world, and recently also the first device of its type to generate one megawatt of power during a successful trial flight conducted by China.
Flying wind turbines are a key part of China's major bet on renewable green energy, but Beijing is always aiming to reduce costs and increase the efficiency of its facilities. Thus, they have developed a versatile inflatable turbine, capable of being quickly transported while generating large amounts of electricity, according to reports.
The floating wind power system S1500 is nearly as tall as a 13-story building, and as long as a basketball court, resembling a giant floating airplane engine. It is capable of operating at altitudes up to 1500 meters, where winds are faster and more stable than at the height of traditional towers (about 200 meters).
This innovation was developed by Beijing Linyi Yunshuan Energy Technology Co., Ltd. The turbine features a main casing filled with helium and a ring-shaped wing that forms a giant channel for harnessing the wind, with 12 generators each having a capacity of 100 kilowatts steadily transmitting electricity to the ground through connecting cables.
One of the standout features of the S1500 is that it does not require huge towers or large metal rotors, reducing the cost per kilowatt-hour by 30%, and facilitating its transportation over long distances thanks to its inflatable design.
The company plans to start mass production next year, facing challenges related to regulatory frameworks and safety standards to ensure the turbine's durability in harsh weather conditions.
CEO Don Tianrui said: "We are striving to make airborne wind energy a fundamental element of affordable green electricity."
