Abstract
Several AWE systems are at the brink of commercialization. While some companies claim that their systems will soon be able to compete with wholesale market prices (Kitemill, MakaniPower), others target specific entry markets, e.g. re-powering of first-generation offshore wind farms (Ampyx Power, Kite Power Solutions) or off-grid applications (Enerkite, Twingtec, Kitepower). However, the actual costs of electricity have not yet been proven and niche markets are either limited in size or pose other potential problems (e.g. higher investment risks in developing countries). To reach market readiness, the so-called “valley of deathž needs to be crossed where high amounts of capital are required [1]. How can investors be convinced that AWE technologies will provide a reasonably secure return on investment? AWE systems will require policy support through specific incentive schemes. AWE technologies are not yet mature enough to be able to participate in competitive tenders with conventional wind power. AWE-specific market push and pull-policies like grants or revenue support would reduce the risk for investors and thus unlock capital. Incentives may differ by AWE system, like power class, legal classification (e.g. aircraft vs. obstacle), or by market and application (permanently grid-connected utility scale, micro-grid, temporary). It seems that the AWE sector itself is not yet sufficiently aware that support policies are required ś so far, the focus has been mainly on technological, regulatory and certification issues. Therefore the AWE Policy Initiative has been formed as part of the Airborne Wind Europe network. It aims to achieve AWE-specific support schemes in Europe to accelerate the large-scale deployment of AWE systems.
Original language | English |
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Pages | 109-112 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2017 |
Event | 7th international Airborne Wind Energy Conference (AWEC 2017) - Freiburg, Germany Duration: 5 Oct 2017 → 6 Oct 2017 Conference number: 7 https://www.awec2017.com |
Conference
Conference | 7th international Airborne Wind Energy Conference (AWEC 2017) |
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Abbreviated title | AWEC 2017 |
Country/Territory | Germany |
City | Freiburg |
Period | 5/10/17 → 6/10/17 |
Internet address |