How can space-based solar panels help advance renewable energy while reducing fossil fuels? This is what a recent study published in Joule hopes to address as a team of researchers from the United Kingdom and China investigated the feasibility of using satellites in geostationary orbit above Earth to beam solar energy to Europe. This study has the potential to help fill the gaps of ground-based solar and wind energy infrastructure.
For the study, the researchers used a series of computer models to analyze two designs based on NASA’s technology readiness level (TRL) criteria and budget predictions, including a heliostat design and a planar design. Additionally, the models were also used to estimate Europe’s 2050 energy grid costs and the costs of the designs. The heliostat and planar designs are currently in early stages and late stages of development, respectively. In the end, the researchers found that despite the early stages of the heliostat design, it shows greater promise regarding the reducing total system costs and reduction in solar and wind energy costs. But the researchers also encourage pursuing both designs as opposed to one.
Artist’s illustration of space-based solar panels. (Credit: Wei He)
“We recommend a coordinated development strategy that combines and leverages both technologies to achieve better performance,” said Dr. Wei He, who is a senior lecturer in engineering at the King’s College London and a co-author on the study. “By first focusing on the more mature planar design, we can demonstrate and refine space-based solar power technologies while concurrently accelerating R&D for designs with more continuous power generation.”
This study comes as the use of renewable energy continues to gain traction across the world, with the 2015 Paris Agreement’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2030 still in effect.
What new discoveries about space-based solar energy will researchers make in the coming years and decades? Only time will tell, and this is why we science!
As always, keep doing science & keep looking up!
Sources: Joule, EurekAlert!