Space-Based Solar Power

Huge problem:

Current terrestrial renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, are limited by intermittency, weather conditions, and atmospheric degradation, necessitating expensive storage solutions or backup from fossil fuels. Furthermore, high-energy industries operating in remote locations, such as large-scale mining, face massive logistical challenges and high environmental costs to secure a constant power supply.

Radical solution:

Capturing solar energy directly in space via satellites in geostationary orbit, where solar intensity is constant and unaffected by the day-night cycle or weather. This energy is transmitted wirelessly to Earth using low-frequency microwaves to a receiving antenna (rectenna), providing a 24/7 uninterrupted flow of clean power.

This approach eliminates the need for massive battery storage and allows for the direct delivery of energy to geographically isolated areas, fundamentally transforming the global energy infrastructure.

Breakthrough technology:

The project centers on high-efficiency Wireless Power Transmission (WPT) via microwaves and precision alignment systems. Key innovations include a next-generation "rectenna" capable of converting microwave energy into DC electricity with minimal loss, alongside modular, lightweight satellite designs that significantly reduce deployment costs.

Team:
Sergi Coma, Xavi Gil, Andreas Eleftheriou, Jan Jettmann. (Mentor: Carlos Gonzalez).