OREANDA-NEWS. SoftBank Corp. and Altaeros Energies, Inc. today announced a definitive agreement under which SoftBank invests USD 7 million in Altaeros to support the continued development and commercialization of its Buoyant Airborne Turbine (BAT) technology.

Founded at MIT in 2010, Altaeros is leveraging proven aerospace technology to lift wind turbines into strong, consistent high altitude winds beyond the reach of traditional wind towers. Operating up to 2,000 feet (600 meters) above ground, the Altaeros BAT generates over twice the energy of similarly sized tower-mounted wind turbines. The BAT is transported in standard shipping containers and does not require a tower, crane, or large underground foundation for installation, eliminating many of the logistical challenges faced by traditional wind turbines.

“Altaeros' airborne wind turbine technology is a new and promising renewable energy solution for remote islands and locations in Japan and the Asia-Pacific region,” said Masayoshi Son, Chairman & CEO of SoftBank. “We also believe in the BAT's potential to create new businesses by combining it with communication and surveillance technologies. We look forward to working with the Altaeros team.”

The BAT's significant increase in energy output, combined with its flexible deployment options, significantly reduces the cost of electricity for remote sites. In addition, the BAT can lift other equipment high into the air, delivering services such as telecommunications to its customers. The Altaeros BAT has a wide range of applications, which include island and remote communities; mining; oil & gas; agriculture; and disaster relief.

“We are honored to partner with SoftBank, one of the world's most respected companies, to work together to commercialize the BAT,” said Ben Glass, CEO and CTO of Altaeros. “Led by Chairman & CEO Masayoshi Son, SoftBank's track record of business innovation, its commitment to increasing the deployment of renewable energy, and its successful partnerships with other top clean energy startups make it the perfect partner for Altaeros.”