Space-based Solar Power Revolutionises Europe’s Energy Outlook

Solar panels positioned in space could supply up to 80% of Europe’s renewable energy needs by 2050, according to cutting-edge studies from King’s College London and NASA’s latest satellite designs. Unlike conventional wind or terrestrial solar, space-based solar power (SBSP) promises uninterrupted clean energy—regardless of cloud, nightfall, or weather disruptions. SBSP exploits constant solar exposure in Earth’s orbit to harvest energy continuously, which is then beamed wirelessly to ground stations using microwave technology.

This breakthrough could transform the continent’s net-zero transition and reduce dependence on volatile fossil fuels and land-intensive renewables—meaning less land used for wind farms, solar parks, and their infrastructure.

How space solar panels work

Space-based solar systems use NASA’s heliostat satellite design—giant reflectors and optimised solar panel arrays that rotate to continually face the Sun. These satellites transmit solar energy to Earth using microwaves, which is then converted to electricity and fed into the grid. This method sidesteps the biggest challenges for renewables: variable generation and battery storage bottlenecks.

Satellite solar panels capture far more sunlight than ground-based ones, as they are unaffected by Earth's atmosphere and the day–night cycle. The King's College London study found that the heliostat design, though in early development, could deliver nearly continuous power and outperform ground-based renewables by mid-century.

Key findings from Europe's space solar research

Recent studies modelling Europe’s 2050 power grid reveal:

• SBSP could cut system costs 7–15%—projected €35.9 billion savings per year on generation and grid infrastructure.
  Reduces battery storage needs by over two-thirds, offering a stable supply no matter the weather.
• SBSP’s efficiency could reach 60–100% of sunlight captured, compared to just 15–30% for ground solar panels.
• Europe’s cross-border electricity market, led by the European Space Agency and shared grid infrastructure, is well-positioned for SBSP collaboration.

The biggest technical breakthrough comes from NASA’s heliostat approach, capable of outperforming wind and ground solar by maintaining maximum solar exposure. For some regions, hydrogen and long-term storage would still supplement SBSP in seasons with fluctuating demand.

Global race for space solar power

The concept—first proposed in the 1960s—gained new urgency as climate targets and energy security ramped up. Not just Europe, but China, Japan, the US, India, and Russia all have active SBSP projects. Japan is pioneering the integration of SBSP prototypes into its national energy plan, positioning itself as a possible first adopter for commercial operations.

For Europe, collaborating through the European Space Agency and joint investment could consolidate resources, making SBSP a continental-scale infrastructure by 2050.

Economic and environmental impact

The King’s College London analysis suggests SBSP could deliver net-zero for Europe while saving land, slashing costs, and providing continuous clean power. Bulk satellite solar would mean far fewer wind and solar farms encroaching on rural or ecologically sensitive areas—freeing up land for farming, rewilding, and other uses.

In terms of cost, optimised SBSP could be feasible if satellite manufacturing and launch costs fall, as anticipated around 2050. For Europe, diverting investment to SBSP could accelerate net-zero progress and offer a scalable, reliable alternative to fossil fuels, while dramatically reducing emissions and energy system risks.

Major engineering challenges remain

Despite promise, a continent-wide SBSP rollout faces significant technical and economic obstacles. Currently, satellite manufacturing and deployment costs are still one or two orders of magnitude above commercial break-even points. Challenges include:

• Orbital congestion and satellite debris risk
• Microwave transmission safety and efficiency
• Long-term maintenance and repair in harsh space environment
• “Signal variability” and transmission interruptions

However, rapid advances in space tech, miniaturisation, and reusable rockets offer hope that feasibility will improve before 2050.

Regulatory and policy priorities for Europe

Researchers urge policymakers to start preparing for SBSP’s potential through regulatory frameworks and large-scale testing. Trials with mature planar arrays—simpler but less efficient satellites—could demonstrate real-world performance long before the more advanced heliostat swarms are ready.

With backing from the European Commission, ESA, and national governments, SBSP could be woven into renewables targets and infrastructure planning over the next decades. Environmental review, public consultation, and international accords will be needed for safe and fair deployment.

Get in touch

Atlantic Renewables remains dedicated to terrestrial solar PV systems and battery storage, empowering UK homes and businesses with reliable, immediate solar solutions. While space-based solar is years away, those looking to future-proof energy bills and green their properties today can contact our engineering team on 0161 207 4044 for an expert quote and guidance.