Space solar energy generation can significantly help Europe in its energy transition. For example, this form of energy production requires up to two-thirds less energy storage, while the total cost of the European energy system can be reduced by 15%.
This is reported by researchers at King's College London based on research they have published in the scientific journal Joule. They focus specifically on a US space agency NASA design for solar energy production in space, to be realised by 2050.
Net-zero emissions in 2050
They point to the European goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Achieving this goal will require a significant shift to renewable energy. Space solar power generation can make a significant contribution to this, according to the researchers.
Advantages include the absence of clouds in space, which on Earth can have a significant impact on the yield of solar panels. Also, solar panels are not at risk from natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes, while much infrastructure on Earth can be damaged by these.
Two designs presented by NASA
NASA previously presented two designs for generating energy in space: Innovative Heliostat Swarm (RD1) and Mature Planar Array (RD2). RD1 generates power 99% of the year by autonomously aiming its reflectors at a concentrator, which bundles sunlight during the day. RD2 uses flat panels, with solar cells directed away from the earth and microwave emitters towards the earth. RD2 generates power only 60% of the year due to limited ability to reposition or direct sunlight to the solar cells.
In the study, the researchers look specifically at RD1. The researchers report that this approach makes it possible to generate solar energy continuously, for example by placing large solar panels on satellites in space. Here, they are exposed to significantly more sunlight than on Earth and can generate energy without interruptions from clouds or Earth's day-night cycle. This energy can then be transmitted to one or more stations on Earth. Here, the energy is converted to electricity, and then released to the power grid or energy storage systems.
80% less land-based energy production needed
The researchers calculate that space-based solar power generation could reduce demand from Europe for land-based renewable energy production by 80%. They also expect that the total cost of the European energy system can be reduced by 15%. This amounts to an annualised cost saving of €35.9 billion.
"For the first time, we are demonstrating the positive impact this technology can have on Europe. Although the feasibility of this technology is still under investigation, our research already shows the huge economic and environmental potential if embraced," reports Professor Wei He, lead author and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Engineering at King's College London.
Also challenges
Incidentally, the researchers also see challenges in space solar power generation. For instance, they point to the substantial investment required to realise the technology, as well as the speed of technological innovation.
More information on the study can be found here.
Image: PIRO via Pixabay
