Brasília – To transform wind into electricity in a more cost-saving and efficient way, a new wind power technology is under development at the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC). Scientists from the UFSCkite group are working on a prototype to replace conventional towers with a cable and a wing in place of blades.
According to Professor Alexandre Trofino, who coordinates the project, this way, it is possible to generate wind power at very high altitudes, inaccessible to conventional towers. According to him, the cables can work at heights of up to 600 meters. “With the use of cables, the wing can operate at high altitudes,” said Trofino, who declared a large number of locations have more potent and frequent winds at that altitude.
In addition to reducing production and installation costs, the technology also makes renewable energy cheaper. Fauna also benefits from it. “It is also possible, with the existing technology, to detect birds and divert the operation of the wing from the migration route, avoiding the death of many animals,” said Trofino.
There are 55 research groups in the world studying this type of wind energy generation. UFSCkite is a pioneer and unprecedented in Latin America. Tests with prototypes are already in the final phase. Professor Alexandre Trofino said investments are essential for the continuity of the project. The group is seeking partnerships and sees potential to supply the domestic market.
The Brazilian federal government estimates the use of wind energy as a power source will reach 17% by 2029. It currently stands at about 10%. Brazil is mainly dependent on hydroelectric power plants, which account for over two-thirds of the country’s power grid.
Translated by Elúsio Brasileiro
