Edd Gent in Singularity Hub:
The idea of beaming solar power down from space might sound like science fiction, but it’s being taken seriously by a growing number of governments. A new analysis shows it could significantly lower the cost of Europe’s 2050 net zero commitment. Space-based solar power was first conceived in 1968 but largely remained on the fringes of energy policy discussions. However, as countries around the world committed to rapidly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the idea started to gain traction. Space agencies in the US, Europe, Japan, and China are now actively developing and testing space-based solar power concepts. But the technology is still nascent and extremely expensive, which raises serious questions about whether it could truly contribute to net zero goals.
A new analysis in Joule takes a stab at predicting whether the technology could play a role in the energy transition, based on current projections. The researchers found that two designs currently under development at NASA could potentially help. They might, according to the paper, even reduce the cost of achieving a carbon-free grid in Europe by 2050 by 7 to 15 percent.
More here.
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