Generating power from kites

Kite Wind Generator.If researchers in Italy have their way, Kite Wind Generators will replace nuclear power plants as an energy source. This generator would resemble a backyard drying rack. Despite its appearance, it can produce as much energy as a nuclear power plant. A snippet of the article is as follows.

Here's how it works: When wind hits the KiteGen, kites spring from funnels at the ends of poles. For each kite, winches release a pair of high-resistance cables to control direction and angle. The kites are not your Saturday-afternoon park variety but similar to those used for kite surfing -- light and ultra-resistant, capable of reaching an altitude of 2,000 meters.

KiteGen's core is set in motion by the twirl of the kites; the rotation activates large alternators producing current. A control system on autopilot optimizes the flight pattern to maximize the juice produced as it sails on night and day.

Link & Image: Wired
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