UK government orders study into space-based solar

The UK government has launched research into space-based solar power (SBSP) systems to study whether solar energy could be captured in space and “beamed back” to grid-connected ground-based receivers on Earth.

The study has been entrusted to engineering and technology consultancy Frazer-Nash and forecasting and analysis firm Oxford Economics, which will explore whether such power stations could bring affordable energy to consumers and what would take to build them.

First conceived by science-fiction writer Isaac Asimov in 1941, the SBSP concept is now being reheated due to advancements in lightweight solar panels and wireless power transmission technology, according to the UK government. Lower costs of space launch, enabled by privately-led ventures, have given the idea an additional push.

The biggest challenge would be assembling large solar power satellites in orbit, where they would collect solar energy, convert it into high-frequency radio waves and then beam it back to Earth.

“The Sun never sets in space, so a space solar power system could supply renewable energy to anywhere on the planet, day or night, rain or shine. It is an idea that has existed for decades, but has always felt decades away,” said Graham Turnock, chief executive of the UK Space Agency.

Frazer-Nash will be looking at three satellite designs from the US, UK and China, as part of its study for the UK government. The firm said that a SBSP system could be developed and in operation by 2050.

Choose your newsletter by Renewables Now. Join for free!