K-BESS system

K-BESS technology: The centerpiece of the DEM-AWE project

The DEM-AWE project is  developing and demonstrating a cutting-edge Airborne Wind Energy application called K-BESS.This renewable energy solution is a kite-powered battery energy storage solution designed to provide clean, scalable, and flexible power. This system is particularly useful for remote and off-grid areas, such as islands, construction sites, and agricultural operations, traditionally reliant on diesel generators.

As part of the DEM-AWE project, the K-BESS solution is undergoing rigorous testing at the Bangor Erris AWE test hub in County Mayo, Ireland. Over an 18-month trial period, Kitepower is operating the K-BESS prototype, which is capable of charging a 400kWh battery in 10 hours. This energy capacity is enough to fully charge an average electric vehicle 10 times. The test site in Bangor Erris provides a real-world environment,  essential to validate the system's technical viability, gather operational data, and collect feedback from local stakeholders. These insights are critical for refining the technology and paving the way for wider adoption across Europe.

BlueWise Marine and Laminak Energy, two of the project’s partners, are using data from these trials to create a roadmap for the commercial rollout of K-BESS and other AWE applications across Northwestern Europe. Using geographic information system (GIS) modelling and market analysis, the DEM-AWE partners are identifying optimal deployment locations in Ireland, France, Spain, and the Netherlands. This comprehensive assessment will help to accelerate the introduction of K-BESS to the market, supporting the broader European energy transition goals.

The demonstration of K-BESS also lays the groundwork for building industrial and manufacturing skills within the AWE sector. Additionally, it contributes to local workforce development through training programs and by promoting the integration of AWE into regional energy strategies.

Through the development of the K-BESS solution, the DEM-AWE project is not only demonstrating the potential of Airborne Wind Energy but also creating the necessary infrastructure for its commercialisation.