AW3 Group
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
An interdisciplinary group at UC3M dedicated to multidisciplinary research and development across all domains of Airborne Wind Energy
The concept
What is Airborne Wind Energy?
Airborne Wind Energy Systems (AWES) produce electricity by capturing the stronger and more reliable winds found at higher altitudes using tethered flying devices, including kites and rigid wings. Unlike conventional wind turbines, AWES do not depend on large towers and heavy rotating structures. Instead, the mechanical power delivered by the high tether tension is transformed into electrical power on a ground station. This results in reduced structural mass, making the system portable and lightweight.
Airborne Wind Energy is emerging as a valuable complement to conventional wind power, especially in applications where adaptability, simplified logistics, and high system performance are essential. At Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, we are proud to be one of Spain’s leading centres for Airborne Wind Energy research and technology development.
About the group
Research with a system-level view.
The AW3 group combines numerical modelling, control-oriented design, experimental validation, and electrical integration to develop airborne wind energy platforms with scientific rigor and engineering maturity.
Rather than treating each topic in isolation, we address AWE holistically with a system-level perspective to progress from theory and simulation to laboratory validation and field deployment.
Work with the AW3 Group