Kitepower, the Dutch specialist in mobile airborne wind energy systems (AWES), last week launched a new rental-first model. The initiative is developed to respond to the rising demand for flexible, cost-effective clean energy solutions across Europe.
With the rental-first model, Kitepower wants to offer companies in Europe a low-threshold opportunity to use renewable energy flexibly without large upfront investments. By unlocking untapped wind potential, the company aims to make renewable energy feasible for a wider range of applications and locations.
“Our customers need flexible, low-cost options to explore new technologies,” said Johannes Peschel, CEO of Kitepower. “Our rental-first model offers a win-win: businesses can experience Kitepower and get access to clean energy with minimal upfront investment, while we gather valuable feedback to improve future Kitepower systems.”
Target groups
Kitepower is aiming at a select group of customers with its rental-first model, including the construction industry, where many projects are delayed due to emission restrictions. Kitepower wants to help construction companies decarbonize their operations and provide on-site energy access. In addition, Kitepower sees the model filling the gap of traditional wind energy, particularly in areas where where traditional wind is not feasible. A third target group are energy companies. For offshore wind farms, particularly in floating offshore locations, Kitepower says it offers a cost-effective way to harness green energy in difficult-to-reach environments on floating platforms.
Phased approach
Kitepower said that, starting in mid-2025, Kitepower’s system will deliver an initial energy yield of 1 MWh per week, with projections to rise to 4 MWh per week as kite and flight efficiency improve. This solution is designed for areas without access to the grid and will also help shape the development of Kitepower’s Falcon system, which is expected to offer a 5-7 year ROI. The first customer will gain a first-mover advantage, including priority service and delivery of future Kitepower systems. Source: Kitepower
