Space-based solar power (SBSP or SSP) is the concept of collecting solar power in outer space with solar power satellites (SPS) and distributing it to Earth.
What is space based solar power?
A step by step diagram on space based solar power. Space-based solar power (SBSP or SSP) is the concept of collecting solar power in outer space with solar power satellites (SPS) and distributing it to Earth.
Could space-based solar power deliver cost-competitive electricity generation?
While requiring substantial development, space-based solar power (SBSP) could deliver cost-competitive electricity generation, de-risking the path by providing a future source of clean, base-load energy by 2040 or earlier.
Creating a space-based solar power system would require addressing several significant capability gaps. Researchers would need to find ways to assemble and maintain large systems in orbit, enable those systems to operate autonomously, and develop efficient power-beaming to bring the harvested energy to Earth.
Is space based solar power a good idea?
The World Needs Energy from Space Space-based solar technology is the key to the world's energy and environmental future, writes Peter E. Glaser, a pioneer of the technology. Japan's plans for a solar power station in space - the Japanese government hopes to assemble a space-based solar array by 2040. Whatever happened to solar power satellites?
Can space-based solar power be used for terrestrial energy needs?
ESA commissioned in early 2022, two independent cost benefit studies of Space Based Solar Power for terrestrial energy needs from Frazer-Nash in the UK and Roland Berger in Germany. The studies concluded that:
Could space-based solar power be a sustainable alternative?
The OTPS report considered the potential of a space-based solar power system that could begin operating in 2050. Based on that timeline, the report found that space-based solar power would be more expensive than terrestrial sustainable alternatives, although those costs could fall if current capability gaps can be addressed.