Eco Factor: Space-based solar power plant being envisioned by PG&E.
California-based utility company Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) is planning to partner with a startup company, Solaren Corporation, to provide about 200MW of space-based solar power (SBSP) by 2016. PG&E is now planning to seek approval from the government authorities to commence work on the project. The announcement comes in effect of the new state requirements according to which the utility company has to source 20% of its power from renewable sources by 2010 and 30% by 2017.
The $2 billion-plus project will be developed by Solaren Corporation, who state that solar electricity would be generated using solar panels in earth’s orbit. This electricity would be converted into radio frequency for transmission to a receiving station. This station would re-convert RF into electricity and then feed it to PG&E’s power grid. The proposed agreement is for delivery of 200MW of SBSP in 2016 for a period of 15 years.
Via: Universe Today
