Wind power is often seen as the least consistent source of renewable energy, but a new project will reach great heights to put the fans in a better spot.

A start-up company formed by MIT engineers and energy experts has launched its first floating turbine.

The wind energy generator consists of a turbine housed in a large tunnel-shaped blimp with wings, filled with helium and designed to float around 500 metres in the air.

The designers at new firm Altaeros Energies say at such unfettered heights, the BAT (Buoyant Airborne Turbine) can generate about twice as much power as an equivalent terrestrial turbine.

But the benefits do not stop at improved energy draw.

The BAT delivers both power and WiFi connectivity to remote areas, generating a local network to bring better internet access to people without.

Altaeros has plenty of big ideas for the BAT.

The designers say it will bring power and internet connectivity to communities with no grid in place. It will also be employed in disaster zones to restore access to vital services faster.

Altaeros will deploy several of its new turbines in tests around remote Alaskan villages, after the company received a $US1.3 million grant from the Alaska Energy Authority.

Residents of remote areas are the main focus for the futuristic flying fans, as the new wave of energy engineers tries to break the hold of big old companies with disruptive ‘micro-grid’ technologies.