SWET to develop Downdraft Tower projects in Kenya

US firm Solar Wind Energy Tower Inc (OTC:SWET) said Monday it has signed a pact with Elpetra Industries Co Ltd to build several 1.25-GW Downdraft Towers in Kenya.

Nairobi-based Elpetra, acting as project developer, has already identified suitable sites and off-take customers. The plan is likely to be implemented in Kenya’s Lake Turkana region, which has been selected by the local government for energy projects. “We have evaluated this site and deemed it adequate to support a Tower project,” said Ron Pickett, CEO of Solar Wind Energy Tower.

Under the terms of the signed memorandum of understanding (MoU), SWET will receive development fees and royalties from the planned Tower projects in Kenya.

The Downdraft Tower represents a hollow cylinder with a water spray system at the top. Pumps deliver water up to spray a fine mist across the entire opening. The water evaporates as the top surface is heated by the Sun, cooling the hot dry air. As it becomes denser and heavier, the air falls at high speed through the cylinder, driving turbines located at the base to produce electricity.

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