Summary
Kitepower is collaborating with De Groene Waarden and TBI Klimaattrein on an innovative airborne wind energy pilot at the A27 Houten–Hooipolder infrastructure project, commissioned by Rijkswaterstaat. From September 2025 to February 2026, a Kitepower system will supply clean, off-grid electricity to the construction site, demonstrating how flexible renewable energy solutions can reduce CO₂ emissions and support emission-free construction in challenging environments.
The pilot is deployed in the river overflow area of the Lek, near the Hagesteinsebrug, showcasing the mobility and adaptability of Kitepower’s technology. By operating on land that is otherwise unsuitable for permanent infrastructure, the system turns unused space into a temporary clean energy source. This flexibility is particularly valuable in large infrastructure projects, where grid access is limited due to net congestion and new connections are difficult to obtain.
Beyond technology development, the pilot focuses on practical application on construction sites. Energy generated by the kite is stored in mobile batteries and used to charge electric vehicles, small construction machinery, and site facilities. Operating under real-world constraints—such as limited flight directions and altitude restrictions—the project generates valuable data on performance under bounded conditions. The collaboration reflects a shared ambition to lead the construction sector toward climate-neutral and circular infrastructure, while accelerating the market readiness of airborne wind energy for deployment on sites where clean, off-grid power is urgently needed.
Sammy van de Watering
Teamlead (NL)
