Space-based Solar Power

Global Space-based Solar Power Market to Reach US$1.0 Billion by 2030

The global market for Space-based Solar Power estimated at US$667.2 Million in the year 2024, is expected to reach US$1.0 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.7% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Microwave Transmitting Solar Satellite, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 6.1% CAGR and reach US$605.4 Million by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Laser Transmitting Solar Satellite segment is estimated at 10.3% CAGR over the analysis period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$175.4 Million While China is Forecast to Grow at 7.6% CAGR

The Space-based Solar Power market in the U.S. is estimated at US$175.4 Million in the year 2024. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$167.9 Million by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 7.6% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% and 6.7% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 6.4% CAGR.

Global Space-based Solar Power Market – Key Trends & Drivers Summarized

Why Is Space-based Solar Power Gaining Serious Momentum in the Global Energy Landscape?

The concept of space-based solar power (SBSP)—once viewed as an ambitious theoretical pursuit—is now gaining traction as a viable solution to long-term energy security and decarbonization. Unlike terrestrial solar farms, which are constrained by atmospheric conditions, weather variability, and the day-night cycle, space-based solar power systems can harness uninterrupted solar energy in orbit and beam it back to Earth using microwave or laser transmission. This uninterrupted energy availability positions SBSP as a game-changing option for base-load renewable power. As the world races to achieve net-zero emissions and transition away from fossil fuels, the appeal of limitless, clean, and reliable space-generated electricity is growing. With the rapid advancements in satellite deployment, power beaming, and wireless transmission technologies, SBSP is evolving from a theoretical research topic to a strategic infrastructure ambition for several governments and energy players. Space agencies like NASA, ESA, JAXA, and the China National Space Administration have launched feasibility studies and early prototypes, while private-sector players and defense departments are eyeing SBSP for both civilian and battlefield energy resilience. This technology is no longer seen as science fiction, but as a strategic clean energy alternative that could reshape how and where energy is generated.

What Technological Breakthroughs Are Driving the Transition from Concept to Feasibility?

The technological barriers that once hindered space-based solar power are now being steadily overcome through innovations across aerospace engineering, wireless power transmission, and lightweight material science. Key breakthroughs include the development of ultra-light, high-efficiency photovoltaic panels that can be deployed in orbit with minimal mass and maximum output. These space-grade panels are designed to unfold into kilometer-scale arrays capable of harvesting solar energy in geosynchronous orbit. Simultaneously, advancements in microwave and laser-based power beaming are enabling the safe and targeted transmission of energy from space to ground-based receiving stations, known as rectennas. Precision control systems, phase-array antenna technology, and beam steering mechanisms are being refined to ensure alignment and efficiency. Modular satellite assembly, in-space manufacturing, and robotic construction are also playing critical roles in realizing large-scale SBSP platforms without the need for complex Earth-based integration. Additionally, reusable launch vehicles and falling launch costs are significantly lowering the economic barrier to transporting SBSP components into orbit. The integration of AI-driven control systems is further allowing these orbital power plants to adapt autonomously to energy demands and operational contingencies. These converging technologies are rapidly pushing SBSP toward commercial viability.

Which Strategic Interests and Use Cases Are Catalyzing Demand for Space-based Solar Power?

Interest in SBSP is being driven by a combination of geopolitical, environmental, and economic imperatives. For many countries, SBSP represents a path to long-term energy sovereignty, reducing reliance on imported fuels and addressing the intermittency challenges of terrestrial renewables. Nations with limited land availability for large-scale solar or wind installations—such as Japan or South Korea—are particularly interested in orbit-based solutions. Defense agencies are exploring SBSP to supply power to remote bases and forward-operating units, where conventional energy supply is logistically challenging or strategically vulnerable. In disaster relief scenarios, mobile rectenna arrays receiving energy from orbital platforms could provide immediate and uninterrupted power where terrestrial infrastructure has been damaged. For emerging markets and off-grid communities, SBSP offers the potential to leapfrog traditional energy infrastructure altogether. Beyond Earth, SBSP also has applications for powering lunar bases and Mars missions, where in-situ solar energy may be inconsistent due to long nights or dust storms. Additionally, private energy companies are examining the feasibility of integrating SBSP into future smart grids as a new category of global, high-reliability energy source. These diverse applications are not only broadening the potential market but also strengthening the strategic case for accelerating SBSP development.

What Is Driving the Long-term Growth of the Space-based Solar Power Market?

The growth in the space-based solar power market is driven by several interconnected factors linked to energy innovation, geopolitical strategy, environmental sustainability, and space commercialization. One of the most critical drivers is the rising global demand for clean, continuous, and scalable energy sources that do not compete for land or freshwater. Space-based solar power offers a unique advantage by eliminating geographic limitations and providing 24/7 energy collection without weather disruptions. Another major factor is the convergence of falling launch costs, reusable rockets, and lightweight solar panel innovations that make deploying SBSP infrastructure more technically and economically feasible than ever before. Continued government interest—illustrated by China’s SBSP roadmap, ESA’s Solaris program, and U.S. defense-funded research—is creating momentum for public-private collaboration and funding. Strategic considerations are also driving growth, as energy independence and orbital energy infrastructure become national security priorities in an increasingly multipolar space race. Additionally, SBSP aligns with global carbon neutrality goals, offering a future-proof energy alternative that complements existing renewable sources. The expansion of orbital manufacturing and robotic assembly capabilities further supports the scalability of SBSP systems. As regulatory frameworks evolve and wireless transmission safety concerns are addressed, space-based solar power is set to emerge as a critical frontier in both the space economy and the global energy transition.

SCOPE OF STUDY:

The report analyzes the Space-based Solar Power market in terms of units by the following Segments, and Geographic Regions/Countries:

Segments:
Satellite Type (Microwave Transmitting Solar Satellite, Laser Transmitting Solar Satellite); Application (Electricity Generation Application, Space Application)

Geographic Regions/Countries:
World; United States; Canada; Japan; China; Europe (France; Germany; Italy; United Kingdom; and Rest of Europe); Asia-Pacific; Rest of World.

Select Competitors (Total 34 Featured) -

• Aetherflux
• Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
• Airborne
• Airbus
• AZUR SPACE Solar Power GmbH
• Caltech Space Solar Power Project
• Canadian Space Agency (CSA)
• CESI SpA
• China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC)
• EMROD
• European Space Agency (ESA)
• Fralock Innovative Materials Manufacturing & Automation
• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
• Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)
• Lonestar Data Holdings
• Lumen Orbit
• Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
• National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
• Northrop Grumman Corporation
• OHB SE
• Orbital Composites
• Rocket Lab
• SolAero Technologies Corporation
• Solaren Corporation
• Space Solar
• SpaceTech GmbH
• Stratosolar
• Thales Alenia Space
• The Boeing Company
• Virtus Solis

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