A groundbreaking study has found that space solar power could supply up to 80% of Europe’s renewable energy needs by 2050. Researchers say the system could also cut costs, reduce reliance on batteries, and solve challenges linked to weather-dependent energy sources on Earth.
A new vision for Europe’s energy grid
The research, led by King’s College London, is the first to examine how space-based solar panels might reshape Europe’s electricity network. Using a detailed computer model of the continent’s future grid, the team simulated power demand, generation, and storage across 33 countries. The results suggest that space solar power could significantly ease Europe’s transition to net zero.
The model revealed that if deployed, the technology could replace most land-based renewable sources. At the same time, it could lower the total cost of the system by as much as 15%. Researchers also found that battery usage could fall by more than two-thirds, further reducing expenses.
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How the technology works
The space solar power system evaluated in the study was based on a NASA concept. It uses a heliostat design, which relies on mirror-like reflectors to capture sunlight in orbit. The collected solar energy is then transmitted to Earth through wireless beams. Once received at ground stations, the energy is converted into electricity and delivered to the grid.
Because the panels operate above the atmosphere, they receive uninterrupted sunlight, unlike terrestrial solar farms that depend on daytime and weather conditions. This makes the system a continuous and centralized energy source capable of providing gigawatt-scale power.
Addressing challenges of land-based renewables
Currently, Europe depends heavily on land-based renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. However, these options often face challenges. Their supply fluctuates with weather, making it difficult to ensure reliability. Costs also vary depending on location, infrastructure, and technology.
The study’s findings suggest that space solar power could serve as a stable alternative. It would offer consistent energy production regardless of weather or time of day. In doing so, it could complement existing renewable sources and reduce the need for massive storage facilities.
Potential risks and challenges
Despite its promise, researchers warn that space solar power still faces major obstacles. Building, launching, and maintaining such a system would require significant investment. At present, the costs are too high to make it commercially viable. Experts believe these barriers could ease by 2050 if technology advances and space operations become more affordable.
Other risks include orbital congestion, possible collisions with debris, and technical issues like transmission interruptions or beaming variability. These factors could affect the system’s reliability and efficiency.
Dr Wei He, senior lecturer at King’s College London and lead author of the study, acknowledged the concerns. “There are some risks to consider, such as whether too many panels in orbit could cause collisions or be damaged by debris,” he said.
Long-term opportunities
Despite the challenges, Wei stressed the potential benefits. He noted that replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy is humanity’s most urgent priority. Space solar power, he argued, could become an essential part of the solution.
“Space-based solar power can provide continuous solar energy as a renewable source,” Wei explained. “It has the potential to play a key role in helping countries reach net zero targets.”
Global interest in SBSP
While Europe is just beginning to assess the concept, other countries are already moving forward. Japan has integrated space solar power into its long-term energy strategy. It is actively testing systems that could beam solar energy from orbit to Earth.
This international interest signals that the technology could become a competitive field in the coming decades. If Europe chooses to invest, it may secure a strong position in a future global energy market shaped by innovation in space.
A glimpse into the future
The study, published in the journal Joule, offers a glimpse of how Europe’s energy landscape could evolve. By 2050, space solar power could complement terrestrial renewables, stabilize the grid, and cut costs. Yet its success depends on overcoming technical, financial, and political hurdles.
For now, the idea remains largely theoretical. But as the climate crisis intensifies and nations seek reliable ways to meet net zero targets, space solar power is emerging as a serious contender for the future of clean energy.
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