UK Explores Space-Based Solar Power Viability for Clean Energy by 2040
The UK is exploring Space-Based Solar Power (SBSP) as a potential clean energy source, with a report from the Department for Energy Security and Net-Zero indicating it could be competitive by 2040. SBSP involves solar farms in space beaming energy to ground-based systems.
The technology requires an estimated £7.5-16.3 billion investment over 18 years, with a significant portion needing public funding. A major challenge includes the high launch costs, with reliance on future availability of Starship-class vehicles.
The report projects levelised costs of electricity could decline from £335-595/MWh in 2030 to £87-129/MWh by 2040 if key technologies are developed successfully. SBSP offers a high capacity factor, potentially providing reliable power when other renewable sources are unavailable.
