China has set a new precedent in sustainable power generation with the first successful flight of the S1500 airship, a megawatt-scale airborne wind turbine that operates at altitudes where winds are more constant and powerful. This test was conducted in Hami, in the Uygur autonomous region of Xinjiang.
A colossal structure designed for the sky
The S1500 is a floating power generator of 60 meters long, 40 meters wide and 40 meters high. 60 meters long, 40 meters wide and 40 meters high.. Its design resembles a Zeppelin, and houses an aerodynamic duct with 12 generators of 100 kW each, capable of transforming wind into electricity at heights of over 500 meters. This system can be deployed and retracted in adverse weather conditions, making it viable for operation in complex environments.
Unlike traditional land-based turbines, this technology does not require foundations or towers, reducing the use of materials by up to 40% and operating costs by 30%. Its fully relocatable structure allows it to be quickly installed in regions such as deserts, mining areas or islands.
A national scientific collaboration
Developed by the SAWES company with support from Tsinghua University and the Aerospace Information Research Institute (AIR), the S1500 integrates advanced expertise in aerostats, ultralight generators and kilometer-long high-voltage cables. This collaborative network made it possible to scale the technology from the previous models S500 and S1000, tested between 2024 and 2025.
Constant winds more than 500 meters above the ground represent an abundant and underutilized source of energy. Thanks to the exponential relationship between wind speed and generated power, this type of system has the potential to significantly multiply electricity production compared to conventional turbines.
Airborne wind turbine applications in critical situations
The platform has also been designed to respond to natural disasters. It can be launched after earthquakes or floods to keep communication systems and vital equipment operational. This dual functionality makes it a versatile solution for both power generation and energy resilience.
Since 2016, China’s National Development and Reform Commission has supported the development of airborne wind turbines as part of its energy plan through 2030. With the success of the S1500, China is positioning itself as a benchmark in the exploration of high-altitude wind sourcesChina’s success with the S1500 positions it as a leader in the exploration of high-altitude wind power sources, paving the way for a more flexible and carbon-free energy model.
Source and photo: China Daily
