A Belfast-based startup company has recently discovered that space could provide Earth with endless supplies of clean energy using just WiFi transmissions.
Space Solar has successfully electrified LEDs wirelessly, the world’s first 360-degree wireless power transmission, per the Telegraph.
“With this demonstration of the world’s first 360 degree wireless power transmission, we’re not only advancing our own capabilities but also laying the foundation for a brighter, cleaner future for generations to come,” said Martin Soltau, co-chief executive of Space Solar.
“Space based solar power will be a commercial reality within a decade – much more quickly than most people imagine, and the UK can be a leader in this technology, helping all nations to transition to a clean energy future with affordable, abundant and reliable energy from space”.
Space Solar claims that this small-scale test, dubbed Harrier, demonstrates the capability of directing a microwave beam from a geostationary satellite, according to Reuters.
It always points toward the sun while it rotates, as it must do in space, and it also points toward the Earth, where the beam is intended for.
Last year, the UK government showed its support for space-based solar power by giving universities and a number of high-tech businesses £4.5 million ($5.7 million) in financing to help them develop the essential technology. Through its Solaris program, the European Space Agency is assisting with similar initiatives, Recharge News reports.
“This successful test is a really important milestone on the way to making space-based solar power a reality,” said Paul Bate, chief executive of the UK Space Agency.
“Safe, wireless, 360° energy transmission is a game changer, and demonstrates the UK’s leading position in this new energy revolution, quite literally harnessing the power of space to benefit life on Earth,” he concluded.
