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Sky Power: China Tests World's First Grid-Connected Airborne Wind System
17 Jan
Summary
- A Chinese firm successfully tested the world's first megawatt airborne wind power system.
- The S2000 system generated 385 kWh feeding directly into China's local grid.
- The floating system is designed for both urban and remote off-grid applications.
A Chinese firm has achieved a significant milestone by testing the S2000, the world's first megawatt-class airborne wind power system capable of direct grid connection. This innovative helium-lifted platform, developed by Linyi Yunchuan Energy Technology, ascended to approximately 6,560 feet during a recent test flight in southwest China.
During its maiden grid-connected demonstration near Yibin, Sichuan Province, the S2000 generated 385 kilowatt hours of electricity, which was successfully fed into the local power grid. The system, resembling a large airship with a suspended power generation structure, is designed to access stronger, steadier wind layers at higher altitudes.
Linyi Yunchuan Energy Technology aims to deploy the S2000 for diverse applications, including powering off-grid locations like border outposts and complementing existing ground-based wind farms. The company is also initiating small-batch production, with plans to expand manufacturing capacity for key envelope materials.
