This study is based on component life and maintenance costs of similar components already in use in other industries and on our projections of operating costs. It does not assume having to pay for land or airspace use or making profit on the sale of this electricity.
However, long range it is expected that the most economic FEGs will range in capacity between ten and forty megawatts. Since the GPS guidance costs are not expected to rise, the cost per kilowatt hour should come down further, probably as low as one cent per kilowatt hour on this basis.
Another economic analysis we have made using a currently used financial model assumes a manufacturing volume of 250 turbines a year, assuming prior production of 150 turbines. In this model, cost of land use and profit is included. At a location such as Michigan (90 percent capacity factor), the sale price per kWh comes out at 1.96 cents per kWh.
Thus, our figures show that energy costs derived from high altitude winds, competing head-to-head without subsidy, should be less than those based on fossil fuels.
It is understandable that you, the reader, may still be skeptical. If so, as a suggestion, consider which part(s) you have doubts about - a) that there really is enough energy to meet human needs in the winds high above us and/or b) that the technical problems are within the capabilities of modern technology to meet economically.
And then decide if you think either is really in doubt. If you do, are willing to state why, and willing to discuss the matter further, by all means, fill in the contact entry on this website, and we will respond.
