False, systems without CoM force application thus axially aligned to the lines, the tether drag only appear exactly as tether tension both on ground generator and wing sides, the tether drag finally add generating force. The energy wasted by the tether is paid by the reel out speed that is slightly reduced for geometrical reasons and wind spot deformation. This affects production only in very low wind condition when the reel out speed isn’t nominal yet. Look here for the potential buffer in presence of de-rating bound conditions:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/331312828_KiteGen_Research_High_Altitude_Wind_Generation_Tropospheric_Wind_Exploitation_Under_Structural_and_Technological_Constraints