The European Space Agency is proposing a space-based solar power program called Solaris to harness clean energy from space and combat climate change. This initiative aims to assess the technical feasibility, benefits, and risks of space-based solar power generation by collaborating with European industry. Space-based solar power involves collecting solar energy with large solar arrays in geostationary orbit, where satellites can efficiently generate energy without atmospheric interference and beam it to Earth for conversion into electricity.
By exploring the potential of space-based solar power, the Solaris program seeks to provide a sustainable energy solution that could contribute to decarbonization efforts. With the ability to generate energy more efficiently than traditional Earth-based plants, space-based solar power has the capacity to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. The European Space Agency will present this proposal to its member states for funding at an upcoming meeting, highlighting the importance of clean energy innovation in addressing environmental challenges.