An Italian company, KiteGen Research, is using an innovative technique to develop a generator that is capable of harnessing the wind through kites. The prototype recently created flies 200-square-foot kites to altitudes of 2,600 feet. At such high altitudes, wind streams are four times as strong as they are near ground-based wind turbines, so a larger amount of power can be generated using the kite-powered generator.
This unique kite-powered generator works with the help of kites that fly into the air and unspools a cord that turns the turbine and generates electricity. When the kite reaches its peak altitude, it crumples and motors quickly reel it back in to restart the cycle. This new invention will generate up to 40 kilowatts of power. The company has started with a development of a new machine that will fly a 1,500-square-foot kite. The machine is expected to generate nearly three megawatts - enough to power 9,000 homes - and is scheduled to be completed by 2011.Image: KiteGen Research