The idea of bringing solar energy to earth from space is not new. However, China is the first country to actually embrace the plan.
China – What sounds like a science fiction novel is currently becoming reality in Bishan, China. The first base station for converting solar energy from space is currently being built near the metropolis of Chongqin. In Japan and the USA in particular, a lot of research has already been done in the past on the utilization of solar power from space. So far, however, always unsuccessful. Now China is trying again.
Use solar energy from space on earth
Ironically, the idea actually came from the pen of a science fiction writer. In a short story written in 1941, the US writer Isaac Asimov described an orbital solar power plant that would be used to transfer energy to earth. 32 years after the book was published, an American engineer patented the idea. As a result, it has been researched for decades.
Now it is scientists from China who want to convert the concept into a usable process and technology. A base station is currently being built there that will convert microwaves from space into electricity. The University of Chongqing in particular was involved in the research. The plans for the project date back to 2010. However, the mammoth project had to be interrupted again and again. It was only finally given the green light in June 2021.
Transmission of solar energy from space
The development is now well advanced. In China, the station is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The first tests are also scheduled to begin in 2021. Captive helium balloons are to be sent first to an altitude of 300 meters and later to 2,000 meters. From 2030, the scientists are planning the first tests in space. It should also be found out whether the idea of converting solar energy into microwaves, receiving it and of course converting it back on earth can actually be carried out as planned.
The test phase is to be completed by 2050. The first solar power plant in space could then be built and produce solar power in the gigawatt range. The energy gained will be used, among other things, for the power supply for a planned lunar research station by China and Russia.
