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Unlocking the Potential of Space-Based Solar Power for American Homes

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Elinor Rozenvasser Updated: September 19, 2023 • 4 min read
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Key Points:

  • Scientists' recent breakthrough, SBSP, captures solar energy in space and transmits it to Earth, providing abundant energy for American homes.

  • SBSP offers clean, weather-resistant energy, potentially cutting costs and reducing fossil fuel dependence.

  • Homeowners should consider protecting their solar panel investment with a home warranty.

Space-based solar power (SBSP) is a revolutionary new technology that harnesses the sun's energy in space and beams it back to Earth. It has the potential to revolutionize the way we generate electricity, providing a clean, reliable, and abundant source of energy for American homes. And scientists have just figured out how to beam solar power from outer space to Earth for the first time. Let's delve into the latest on this new discovery and how it can likely affect your pocket. 

How SBSP Works

SBSP systems typically consist of a satellite in geosynchronous orbit equipped with solar panels and a microwave transmitter. The solar panels collect solar energy and convert it into electricity. The microwave transmitter then beams the electricity back to Earth, where it is received by a rectenn. This is then converted back into electricity that can be fed into the power grid.

Experts believe that SBSP could become a major source of electricity for the United States in the coming decades.

Benefits of SBSP for American Homes

SBSP offers several key benefits for American homes:

  • Clean energy: SBSP is a clean energy source that does not produce any emissions or pollutants. This helps to improve air quality and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
  • Reliable energy: SBSP is not affected by weather conditions, so it can provide a reliable source of electricity 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This is especially important in regions that experience frequent power outages.
  • Abundant energy: SBSP has the potential to generate a virtually unlimited amount of energy. This could help to meet the growing demand for electricity in the United States.
  • Reduced energy costs: SBSP could help to reduce energy costs for American households. As the technology becomes more widespread and affordable, the cost of SBSP-generated electricity is expected to decline.
  • With declined electricity, American households with solar panels can save thousands yearly on reduced energy expenses. The good news is, that these savings can be easily leveraged with opening a certificate of deposit (CD) account. CDs are accounts that earn interest on a lump sum for a fixed period of time. These are a safe and stable option for investors seeking a modest return upon maturity. 

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Solar in Space: Challenges Faced

While SBSP offers many potential benefits, there are also some challenges that need to be addressed before it can be widely deployed. One challenge is the high cost of launching and maintaining solar satellites in orbit. Another challenge is the development of efficient and affordable microwave transmitters and rectennas.

Despite the challenges, there has been significant progress in SBSP technology in recent years. In 2022, a team of researchers at the California Institute of Technology successfully beamed a small amount of solar power from space to Earth using a prototype microwave transmitter. This was a major milestone in the development of SBSP technology.

Experts believe that SBSP could become a major source of electricity for the United States in the coming decades. The cost of SBSP technology is expected to decline as the technology becomes more mature and widespread. Additionally, governments around the world are investing in SBSP research and development. This is greatly helping to accelerate the development of the technology.

What American Homeowners Can Do to Support SBSP

There are a few things that American homeowners can do to support the development and deployment of SBSP:

  • Contact your elected officials and urge them to support SBSP research and development.
  • Consider installing solar panels in your home. This will help to create a demand for solar energy and reduce the cost of SBSP technology.
  • Support companies that are working to develop and deploy SBSP technology.

News & Updates Related Articles


Home Warranty Protection for SBSP Systems

When you install solar panels on your home, it is important to protect your investment with a home warranty. A home warranty can help to cover the cost of repairs or replacements to your solar panels and other home systems. This can give you peace of mind knowing that you are financially protected in the event of a problem. Getting a home warranty makes it less likely that you'll have to pay an arm and a leg for repairs if your appliances or systems stop working. And with solar panels significantly increasing the value of your home, you'll really want to consider having these hefty metals insured. When choosing the best home warranty company, there are plenty of options to consider. Be sure to thoroughly research and compare for the best rates and offers on the market. 

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The Bottom Line

SBSP has the potential to revolutionize the way we generate electricity, providing a clean, reliable, and abundant source of energy for American homes. While there are still some challenges that need to be addressed, significant progress has been made in recent years. American homeowners can support the development and deployment of SBSP by contacting their elected officials, installing solar panels on their homes, and supporting companies that are working to develop and deploy SBSP technology.

Elinor Rozenvasser is a content writer and editor with a knack for finance. She holds a Bachelor's in Communications and Business from Reichman University, and has been swimming alongside finance specialists for over a decade. She's not your typical financial writer, though. She's more likely to use witty puns and sarcasm than jargon and technical terms. But don't let that fool you. She's still a whiz when it comes to explaining complex financial concepts in a way that anyone can understand. If there's any writer who can make finance fun and engaging, Elinor is your girl. She's sure to leave you laughing (and learning) long after you've finished reading her work.