The recent inclusion of Airborne Wind Energy (AWE) in Germany's Renewable Energy Act (EEG) marks a significant milestone for the AWE industry. This legislative move is a testament to the technological and economic potential of AWE and underscores its critical role in future energy systems.
The recent inclusion of Airborne Wind Energy (AWE) in Germany's Renewable Energy Act (EEG) marks a significant milestone for the AWE industry. This legislative move is a testament to the technological and economic potential of AWE and underscores its critical role in future energy systems.
Historically, the potential of AWE has been recognized by entities like the International Energy Agency (IEA), evident from their presence at industry conferences such as AWEC. However, investors have remained skeptical due to their lack of belief in new incentive schemes. Germany's latest legislative support represents a shift from mere acknowledgment to concrete backing, promising specific remuneration that mitigates market risks and boosts investor confidence.
The support level is estimated to be at 130 EUR/MWh, which allows systems like the KM2 at 100kW to operate profitably. Similar incentives that have successfully supported conventional wind and solar technologies. While this level is not sufficient to scale up the AWE companies' supply chains entirely, it is expected to be one of several instruments Germany and other countries will employ to support the AWE sector.
Germany’s commitment to reducing barriers and enhancing incentives for AWE comes at a pivotal time. The EEG-Solar package, now inclusive of AWE, aims to accelerate the industry’s growth by providing essential political and financial backing. This development reduces the financial risk profile associated with investing in high-tech, innovative solutions like AWE. Investors can be confident that when systems are built, the market will be ready, supported by strong political endorsements and financial instruments that enable AWE to progress along the learning curve towards becoming a dominant generation technology.
By addressing market acceptance through legislative support, Germany is setting a precedent for other nations to follow. This move signals to stakeholders that AWE is not just a viable alternative but a necessary advancement in the quest for a sustainable, zero-emission future. The future of renewable energy is bright, and AWE is poised to be at the forefront of this transformation.
AWE has also gained significant traction within the EU's innovation incentives for the wind sector. Kitemill, for instance, is a direct beneficiary of the NAWEP project supported by the EU’s Innovation Fund. Recently, Kitemill represented AWE in Brussels alongside Engie, which represents the Aquilon project utilizing Skysails’ technology. EU representatives from various departments within the CINEA (European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency) emphasized the role of AWE in achieving EU energy targets. CINEA's dedication to making NAWEP and other EIF projects successful is evident, and there is a clear, long-lasting interest in the AWE sector from the EU.
For AWE to thrive, the EU must focus on overcoming competitive challenges and securing a leadership position in this high-potential sector, especially considering the advancements in other markets. Germany’s leadership in supporting AWE is timely, encouraging other EU member states to follow suit.
As we continue to push the boundaries of innovation and sustainability, it is crucial to drive forward with solutions that promise a cleaner, greener future. With AWE now recognized within the EEG, the industry is set to make significant contributions to the energy transition, creating new growth markets and job opportunities while fostering environmental benefits.
This development makes the timing exceptionally good to open up for pre-orders. For the first time, we are excited to announce the option to pre-order Kitemill's innovative AWE systems. Take advantage of this opportunity and be at the forefront of the AWE wave Preorder here.
We are also open to getting in touch with developers who have ambitions in Germany and elsewhere. As more incentives arise, this is the perfect time to collaborate and push the industry forward.
For more details, refer to the document solarpaket-im-ueberblick.pdf from BMWK.
