Innovators around the globe are 1 working on prototype airborne wind turbines to bring high-altitude energy down to earth. R&D concepts range from little airplanes flying in circles to tethered aerostats or kites. "The technology has attractive features that are sufficiently compelling, it makes sense to continue to investigate it," says Fort Felker, director at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). "The challenges are huge, but the potential is immense." And with a much higher premium on lightweight design, components like the blades and frame will use advanced composites.
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