[Science World] Why Space Solar Power Generation Is Gaining Attention

[Asia Economy] How can electricity be transmitted to other locations? The simplest method is to connect cables over long distances. While effective, this approach has limitations. Large-scale construction is required, and if construction is impossible, electricity cannot be transmitted. To overcome these inconveniences, the technology of ‘wireless power transmission’ can be used. High-power wireless power transmission using ‘microwaves’ or ‘lasers’ can send electricity over distances of tens of thousands of kilometers or more. The downside is that power efficiency (energy efficiency) tends to be low, rarely exceeding 50%. Due to issues with efficiency and safety, it is currently rarely used.

However, recently this technology has been gaining attention. This is because it is expected to be one of the solutions to the pressing global energy problem. The idea is to launch a huge artificial satellite equipped with solar panels into space, generate electricity on that satellite, and receive it on the ground.

Since solar power generation can also be done on the ground, why choose such a complicated method? The reason is that the generation efficiency is tremendously higher than on the ground. It can receive intense sunlight and generate power 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Solar energy obtained in space is at least 10 times greater than on the ground. Even if about half of the energy is lost during transmission, it means the efficiency is about five times higher than on the ground. Another major advantage is that it significantly saves the ground space required for power generation. Only a large antenna about 7 to 13 km wide is needed on the ground.

Currently, countries around the world are accelerating research and development of space solar power plants. The UK has launched the ‘UK Space Energy Initiative,’ involving more than 50 companies and research organizations, and has begun full-scale research and development. They plan to actually install space solar power plants between the 2030s and 2040s. Japan has announced plans to launch a 1GW-class solar power satellite into space by 2030, equivalent to one nuclear power plant. China also aims to operate a GW-class large space power plant after the 2030s.

Whether space solar power generation will truly become a reality is still unknown. However, it is certainly an extremely attractive method and theoretically feasible. Hopefully, continuous investment and research will be carried out to see how much it can help solve humanity’s energy problems.

Jeon Seung-min, Science and Technology Writer

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.