This document refers to Task 48, completed during the first period. As this period has already concluded, it has been formally archived for record-keeping and future reference.

Structure (Work Packages)

WP1 – Resource potential & Markets

Assessed high-altitude wind resources, predicted AWE performance, estimated energy yield, evaluated costs, and identified promising markets. Delivered tools such as the AWERA resource analysis platform and the global high-altitude wind atlas.

WP2 – Reference Models & Tools

Developed simulation platforms, metrics, KPIs, technology assessment methods, and reference models such as MegAWES. Supported validation and comparison of AWE architectures.

WP3 – Safety & Regulation

Collaborated with aviation and energy authorities (EASA, FAA) to adapt regulations, develop safety guidelines, integrate AWE into airspace, and support future international standards.

WP4 – Social Acceptance

Studied public perception, visual and noise impacts, effects on fauna, site selection, community participation, life-cycle impacts, and circularity. Included field interviews and several LCA studies.

WP5 – AWES Architectures

Mapped and compared different AWE system designs, analysed trade-offs, identified R&D needs, and highlighted unexplored design spaces.

Structure (Work Packages) Results & Achievements

• Supported over 50 scientific papers per year.

• Enabled more than 40 technical meetings for open scientific exchange.

• Delivered reference tools (AWERA, MegAWES), harmonised terminology, economic models, and multiple case studies.

• Produced a White Paper on AWE airspace integration.

• Conducted social acceptance surveys and Life-Cycle Assessments (LCAs).

• Collaborated with major EU and international R&D projects (Horizon Europe, Interreg, MegaAWE, MERIDIONAL, AWETRAIN).