Japanese sustainable innovation: SSPS

Friday August 6th, 2010 by Giel Op 't Veld

Solar power is of course one of the most well-known alternative energy sources. In Holland, we often think we have too little sun to let the entire country run on its potential power. Then, where would one go to exploit the sun to her full capacity? Exactly, Japan! Or to be more exact: over Japan.

Japanese space agency JAXA is currently involved in one of the most ambitious projects on sustainability. There is no place like space where one could make the most use of the sun’s rays. A so-called Space Solar Power System (SSPS) collects solar energy from geostationary orbit and transmits that to the Earth’s surface through microwaves. Though the idea is not new, JAXA is the first to turn it into reality. In 2009, the Japanese announced that they wish to have their first satellites in orbit by 2030. While this year, the first hardware tests have already begun.

JAXA has multiple locations in Japan and the Satori study tour will make sure to pay a visit.   
You can read more on recent tests here.