Space Solar, a technology firm, is taking a groundbreaking step to revolutionize clean energy in the UK. The company’s plan is to create a massive solar farm in space, orbiting the planet. This solar farm will transmit constant energy back to Earth.

The solar farm is expected to be operational by 2035. It has the potential to transform how the world embraces clean energy.

The project aims to make a significant impact on achieving net-zero emissions and creating a brighter future for our planet.

Why space-based solar is taking off

Space-based solar power is taking off due to recent advancements in reusable rockets. Reusable rockets lower the cost of space travel considerably, which makes space-based solar farms economically feasible.

Elon Musk’s company SpaceX has become the leading player in reusable rocket technology. The company’s reusable Falcon 9 rocket has successfully launched over 250 times.

Space-base solar power is also becoming more popular due to government support. The UK government has shown substantial interest in space-based solar power research. According to Interesting Engineering, the UK government has invested £6 million in domestic research and millions more in international research.

Why space-based solar is the best form of energy

According to Sam Alden, CO-CEO and Executive Director of Space Solar, space-based solar power is the best source of clean energy. There are multiple reasons why Alden says this.

  • Space-based solar power provides a continuous and reliable power supply, which ensures the stability of the electricity grid.
  • Space-based solar power can be adjusted to match the output of intermittent energy sources like wind and terrestrial solar. This enables space-based solar to successfully integrate with these power sources.
  • Space-based solar power has minimal impact on the environment in terms of land usage, carbon emissions, and mineral resource consumption.
  • Space-based solar power is flexible. Space-based solar farms can export energy to multiple nations without the need for expensive fixed infrastructure like underwater power cables.

What lies ahead

In 2022, Space Solar’s founders created a consortium called the Space Energy Initiative (SEI). The SEI brings together the space and energy sectors. The consortium has over 80 member organizations, and it has garnered support from the UK government.

The SEI is expected to be a key global player in developing and industrializing space-based solar technology in the coming years.

International collaboration is crucial for the success and safe operation of space-based solar power. Common standards and regulations are necessary. Space Solar welcomes discussions with international partners who share their vision.

Once fully operational, Space Solar’s solar farm could provide 20% of the Earth’s energy supply with just 600 satellites, according to the BBC.

Image Source: The Solar Move, https://shorturl.at/bEV19