Makani Airborne Wind Turbine

The Makani Airborne Wind Turbine is a tethered wing that generates power by flying in large circles where the wind is stronger and more consistent. It eliminates 90% of the material used in conventional wind turbines, and can access winds both at higher altitudes and above deep waters offshore — resources that are currently untapped. The company’s goal is the utility-scale deployment of airborne turbines in offshore wind farms.

Makani was acquired by Google[x] in 2013 after proving the concept of airborne wind with a fully functional 30 kilowatt prototype.