This idea would sound like Science Fiction even if I had not read it on the SciFi network blog:
Used fryer oil. Poultry offal. Ocean waves. To the lengthening list of alternative-energy ideas, please add kites. Sequoia Automation wants to transform kites from kids’ toys to power generators.
The KiteGen power plant would work by letting loose a bunch of kites tethered to a central rotor. By flying over a mile high, the kites would tap into powerful high-altitude gusts that windmills can only dream about. The force of the winds sets the rotor in motion, generating power.
Radar and winches would make sure the kites don’t get in the way of aircraft, birds or each other. On paper, a KiteGen plant could produce more power than a nuclear station at a fraction of the cost. The company plans to build a plant in the next two years.
