Solar panels placed in space could transform Europe’s energy future by supplying up to 80% of the continent’s renewable power needs by 2050, according to a new study from King’s College London. The research suggests that this system, based on a NASA design, could lower overall energy system costs by 15% and cut battery use by more than two-thirds.
Land-based renewables, which depend on weather and daylight, but space-based solar power (SBSP) works above the atmosphere, providing a continuous, clean energy source. Using mirror-like reflectors, the panels collect sunlight in orbit and transmit it to Earth, where it is converted into electricity and fed into the grid.
The study used a detailed computer model covering 33 European countries, producing future demand, generation, and storage to test the impact of SBSP.
Researchers found that SBSP could act as a main power source, and it will help to reduce Europe’s dependency on gas and solve problems like power cuts and uneven energy supply.
While the idea is promising, the technology still has many challenges, such as crowded orbits, chances of satellite damage, and the high cost of building and launching. Experts say these costs may stay too high to make SBSP practical before 2050.
Lead researcher Dr Wei He said the study highlights both opportunities and risks. “There are some risks to consider, such as how the satellite in space could have too many solar panels. Could it cause collisions or damage from debris in space?” he noted.
Despite these uncertainties, Wei stressed that SBSP could play an important role in achieving net zero and said that “Renewable energy to replace fossil fuels is the most important action we are taking as humans. Space-based solar power can provide continuous solar power as a renewable energy source.”
Countries like Japan are already working to integrate SBSP into their clean energy strategies. The study suggests that Europe, with its long history of multinational cooperation in satellite ventures and cross-border electricity exchange, could follow suit by building a centralised SBSP infrastructure.
Doing so would allow the continent to secure a stable, large-scale renewable supply and move closer to its net-zero goals.
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