The Global Race to Harness Solar Power From Space

AI Summary

Governments in several countries are exploring space-based solar power systems that could collect sunlight in orbit and transmit energy to Earth. Proponents point to continuous sunlight in space, while terrestrial solar generation is affected by night, clouds, and seasonal conditions.

Several countries around the globe are racing to develop space-based solar power (SBSP) systems to harness solar power from space. On Earth, solar power has become a popular form of renewable energy production. However, tapping solar power is limited by night, cloud cover, atmospheric conditions, and seasonality. Roughly 30 per cent of all incoming solar radiation never makes it to ground level. Meanwhile, in space, the sun shines constantly. For this reason, several governments are exploring the potential to develop SBSP projects that will help…