Jon Excell

Expert Q&A: space based solar power

In-Depth

In our latest Q&A feature an expert panel discusses the development of space-based solar farms that beam clean energy back to earth

As the push for a carbon free planet becomes ever more urgent, global interest in space based solar power (SBSP) - a concept that promises a limitless, uninterruptable supply of renewable energy - is gathering pace. We asked a number of researchers and engineers at the forefront of this fascinating area about the potential of the concept, progress on the key underpinning technologies, and what  - in their view - the key technical challenges are to making it a reality.

Meet the experts

Dr Nicol Caplin - Exploration Scientist, ESTEC, European Space Agency (ESA)

Paul Febvre – CTO - Satellite Applications Catapult

Sam Adlen – Co-CEO Space Solar

What are the attractions and potential benefits of space based solar?

NC: The primary driver for space-based solar power (SBSP) is the pressing and immediate need to find an alternative energy source that could wean humanity from its dependency on fossil fuels. ESA’s Solaris project aims to provide Earth with a limitless, renewable energy source.

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