R. Creighton
Windlift, North Carolina, United States
Keywords: floating, offshore, airborne, wind, energy,
Windlift is pioneering an innovative floating platform to harness Airborne Power Generator (APG) technology offshore. This platform leverages material advantages and scalability while introducing a range of novel use cases: Renewable Expeditionary Energy: In challenging littoral environments, our platform offers reliable renewable energy, supporting military operations and enhancing national security. Installation Resiliency: Providing adaptable, continuous power to military installations, day and night. Autonomous Systems Charging: Enabling remote recharging and refueling of offshore autonomous vehicles and sensors, expanding operational capabilities. The platform empowers APG technology, significantly reducing materials compared to traditional offshore wind turbines, improving logistics and cost-effectiveness. Development is supported by the DOE, complementing an NRL PHASE III SBIR developing APG drones. Decades of design experience, a robust patent portfolio, and strong advisory board support the effort. This technology promises substantial cost reductions in CAPEX and LCOE, aligning with the national goal of installing 30 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030 and DOE’s “Earthshot” cost target of $45/MWh by 2035. Windlift's APG technology is further bolstered by DoD programs, supporting defense operational energy and national security. Windlift's platform unlocks a new era in offshore energy, with far-reaching benefits for military, economic growth, and sustainability.