The Space Energy Initiative strongly welcomes the UK Government’s announcement today of £3 million of grant funding for Space-Based Solar Power projects. This funding is seen as recognition of the potential of this revolutionary new technology, and will kick-start its development as a solution to the UK’s future energy needs.
The announcement builds on the recommendations of the techno-economic study by Frazer-Nash Consultancy, published in September 2021. The study shows that Space-Based Solar Power is not only technically viable, but can bring strong economic benefit to the UK, and be developed quickly enough to provide a major contribution to the UK’s Net Zero commitments.
The development of Space-Based Solar Power will also have benefits beyond providing a source of clean, green, base-load energy. It will accelerate many associated technological solutions, particularly for long distance wireless power beaming, autonomous assembly of large structures in challenging environments, and high concentration photovoltaics.
The funding is expected to bring together the Energy and Space sectors to rapidly develop the core-capabilities and system requirements for this game-changing clean energy technology.
Martin Soltau, Co-Chair of the Space Energy Initiative said: “I am delighted that the findings of the Frazer-Nash study have been responded to in this positive way. This announcement is the first important step on a journey which will ultimately lead us to clean, green energy from space that can be beamed to earth day and night, through all seasons and weather. It’s the most forward-looking solution we have today to the UK’s future energy needs.”
Sam Adlen, Co-Chair of the Space Energy Initiative said: “The Space-Based Solar Power concept has today been given a stamp of approval by the UK Government. The announcement will focus the brightest minds in the space and energy industries on this technology and I look forward to seeing what innovative UK companies, working closely together, will be able to develop.’
