Windlift

🚀 Big progress for Windlift during our latest test flights! We conducted 3 static flights in our highest winds yet and followed up with 2 'tow' tests—towing the APG down the runway to simulate higher wind speeds.   Our upgraded aircraft with new pylons performed autonomously, stayed stable across a range of speeds and trims, and dynamically adjusted its flight pattern to dramatic changes in apparent wind direction. These tests provided invaluable data on controls, power output, and tether drag, giving us insights that are already fueling our next round of upgrades to generate even more power.   Check out the video for a closer look at the towed test in action! #renewables #sustainability #innovation

That’s a wrap! Last week, our Clean Tech Energy Network (#CTEN) team visited energy tech innovators across North Carolina, led by Power Africa Deputy Coordinator Cullen Hughes. Our final stops at RTI International and Windlift capped a week of learning about innovations and research happening across North Carolina and the broader U.S. on technologies capable of driving reliable energy solutions in Africa. At RTI International, we explored their Technology Advancement & Commercialization and Energy Technology Development Facility, where they’re advancing energy system reliability, renewable gas-to-chemicals technologies, and CO2 conversion into higher-value products. With energy-focused projects in 47 countries, RTI is shaping global clean energy solutions. Thank you to Nicole Barnes, Senior Vice President of International Development & Executive Director, Climate Growth Strategy, and Matthew Tiedemann, Director of Energy Division, and the entire RTI team for an informative visit! At Windlift, we joined Sean Q. Meyer, Chief Operating Officer, to learn about their Airborne Power Generator—a potentially game-changing innovation for the future of wind energy. Across North Carolina, we saw firsthand how U.S. energy tech companies are advancing research and technology that can be leveraged to address Africa’s growing demand for energy access. From energy reliability to automation and e-mobility, these innovations can drive sustainable development while creating opportunities on both continents united 🇺🇸 🤝 🌍 #NorthCarolina #USInnovation #EnergyInnovation #EnergyAcess #Africa John Hansen Erik Streed Stephanie Wiseman Steve McManus Jeffrey Petrusa Pablo Torres Dave Dausch Sameer Parvathikar

🚀 Last Friday’s flight test was a big step forward for Windlift! With over 15 upgrades across the system—from enhanced flight trajectories and continuous wind detection to a redesigned wing and advanced control software—the APG flew smoothly from takeoff to landing. Each new component contributed to improved stability, control, and responsiveness, bringing us closer to a fully optimized system. Our primary focus for this test was on testing and integrating all of the new changes rather than power generation. ⚡️As icing on the cake, the APG produced power during a portion of the flight in winds below our rated minimum cut-in speed. The system’s ability to generate power under these conditions highlights the progress we’re making. Check out the video for a glimpse of the APG in action! #Windlift #RenewableEnergy #FlightTest 

Great insights from DCVC on the current investing climate—appreciate their perspective on balancing bold innovation with practical solutions in today’s market. Worth a read! https://lnkd.in/gXy3kxaq

Our Sunrise Wind project continues to advance, with more than half of its advanced foundation components now complete!     Yesterday, we joined state and local officials at the Port of Coeymans assembly hub to celebrate the exciting progress on New York’s largest offshore wind project. These advanced foundation components represent a more than $86 million investment in New York’s offshore wind supply chain, and the creation of 230 jobs in local construction and manufacturing. This is just one part of our ongoing $20 billion investment in American energy, job creation, supply chain expansion, and domestic energy generation.      Read more: https://lnkd.in/epSYGGNs

🚀 Exciting Progress in Our Latest Test Flight! 🚀 Last week, we conducted the first flight with our newly designed fuselage, and it was a technical success! Despite a short flight time of about 6 minutes due to low wind, restrictive motor limits, and an angle of attack outside the operating envelope, our skilled pilot—recently trained in the simulator with new flight modes—safely landed the aircraft in manual mode. This test also featured some exciting upgrades, including: - New custom telemetry analysis software - A custom trailer with a dedicated telemetry room - Robust fuselage wiring We’re eager to get airborne again later this week (wx pending!) to continue testing and refining our technology. Stay tuned for more updates! #AerospaceEngineering #RenewableEnergy #FlightTest 

🌟 Inspiring the Next Generation with District C! 🌟   Last week, Windlift had the opportunity to volunteer with District C, working alongside two groups of talented high schoolers. These bright young minds, using teamwork and creative problem-solving, helped us tackle a marketing and strategy challenge.   Our Director of Operations, Taylor Tally, and VP of Business Development, Ben Leape, framed the problem and engaged with the students to explore potential solutions. It was amazing to see the fresh perspectives and innovative ideas they brought to the table.   We also had the pleasure of welcoming the students to our office, where they got a firsthand look at our technology and interacted with our engineers. It was an inspiring experience for everyone involved, showing us how valuable it is to get fresh sets of eyes on complex problems.   At Windlift, we are committed to inspiring the next generation and fostering a collaborative environment where new ideas can thrive. Thank you, District C, for this fantastic opportunity!    #Teamwork #Innovation #STEM

🚀 Exciting Updates from Windlift's Recent Flight Test! 🚀   Earlier this month, high winds at our test site caused our aircraft to tip over just after unloading. After a quick field repair by the composites team, we continued with our test flight.   We tested new control parameters pre-trained in the simulator and activated the live learning feature, allowing the aircraft to adjust to changing wind conditions and find the most efficient trajectories. It performed well through wind direction shifts and gusts.   Our CTO noted, "The goals were to improve angle of attack and sideslip control using a new control algorithm and to verify the resolution of a significant avionics issue from an earlier test. Both objectives were met, paving the way for the first test flight of our newest generation aircraft."   We are thrilled with these advancements and look forward to more successful flights. Stay tuned for more updates!   #Windlift #RenewableEnergy #FlightTest 

🌱 Exciting Visit to Plantd! 🪴   Last week, our CEO, Rob Creighton, Director of Operations, Taylor Tally, and First Flight Venture Center CEO, Krista Covey had the pleasure of touring Plantd, another innovative local startup. We were graciously hosted by their Co-CEO, Huade Tan.    It's always inspiring to support our local ecosystem and engage in meaningful discussions with fellow founders. Sharing insights and experiences helps us all grow (pun intended!) the green economy together.   #LocalStartups #Innovation #EcosystemSupport #Founders

We're #hiring a Ground Systems Mechanical Engineer!