Techno-economic analysis of power smoothing solutions for pumping airborne wind energy systems

Abstract In pumping airborne wind energy (AWE) systems, the kite is operated in repetitive crosswind patterns, pulling tether from a winch that drives generator on ground. During reel-out phase of its operation, it produces power, whereas, during reel-in phase, consumes small fraction produced power. This leads to an oscillating power profile requires smoothing before can be supplied electricity grid. paper proposes three drivetrain concepts as solution this challenge. The are based different types storage technologies: electrical, hydraulic and mechanical. Techno–economic models drivetrains were developed case-study sizing costing for MW–scale AWE system was performed. Conclusions drawn provide guidance developers choosing suitable concept their systems.