NASA's solar panel designs for space missions may reduce battery usage by up to 70%, with a potential increase in output.

A new study published by researchers suggests that space-based solar panels could provide a significant portion of Europe's energy needs, potentially reducing the continent's reliance on Earth-based wind and solar power by up to 80%.

The study, which is currently undergoing peer review, proposes the use of two primary designs for space-based solar panels: the Heliostat and the Planar Array. Both designs are positioned in orbit to capture sunlight efficiently and convert the energy into microwaves.

The Heliostat design, which is still in early development, uses autonomous reflectors to focus sunlight onto a concentrator. This design is projected to outperform wind and solar power by 2050, potentially reducing the need for battery storage by more than 70%. However, for the Heliostat to be cost-effective, its annual costs would need to decrease to 14 times the cost of Earth-based solar panels.

On the other hand, the Planar Array design uses fixed, flat panels and is less efficient, generating power only 60% of the year. Despite this, the Planar Array design has a higher technological readiness, making it a viable option for demonstrating the concept on a shorter timescale.

The core advantage of space-based solar power lies in its ability to generate power nearly continuously. This continuous power generation could lower total energy grid costs by 7 to 15% by 2050, according to the study's authors.

Major technological advancements are required for widespread implementation, particularly in large-scale wireless energy transmission and robotic assembly of the large structures in orbit. China and Japan are actively developing space-based solar power systems and have strategic national plans to catch up with the United States.

The converted microwave energy from space-based solar panels is wirelessly transmitted to receiving stations on Earth and integrated into the existing power grid. Space-based solar panels operate similarly to communication satellites.

The study also suggests that space-based solar panels could reduce Europe's need for Earth-based wind and solar by up to 80%. According to the researchers, current costs are "1-2 orders of magnitude above these break-even points." For the Heliostat and Planar Array designs to be cost-effective, substantial cost reductions are necessary.

The authors of the study advocate for a "coordinated development strategy" that leverages both the Heliostat and Planar Array designs. This strategy could potentially lead to a more efficient and cost-effective implementation of space-based solar power.

Space-based solar panels have been conceptualized since 1968, but they are now becoming a technological possibility. The potential benefits of space-based solar power are significant, and further research and development could pave the way for a more sustainable and cost-effective energy future.