Iceland could receive clean energy from space by 2030
Imagine a country that gets its energy from space, free from interruptions and regardless of whether it is day or night. Iceland is one step away from achieving this thanks to the vision of Space Solar, a British startup aiming to revolutionize the energy industry. In a historic agreement with Reykjavik Energy, Space Solar has committed to sending energy captured in space to Earth to supply Iceland’s power grid. This groundbreaking project could be operational by 2030, marking a milestone in the race toward a carbon-free planet.
Clean energy from space: the new frontier of sustainability
Space-based solar energy is a technology that promises a constant and sustainable energy supply. Forget cloudy days or the lack of sunlight at night; with this advancement, energy is captured in space, transmitted to Earth via high-frequency radio waves, and converted into electricity fed into the grid. This is the ambitious plan of Space Solar, which will begin with a 30 MW plant and, if successful, could expand on a global scale.
A step forward in energy independence
The partnership between Space Solar and Transition Labs, an Icelandic initiative focused on combating climate change, aims to go beyond simple power generation. This collaboration seeks to offer a real solution to dependence on weather conditions and energy supply interruptions. With energy captured from space, Iceland could enjoy a constant supply without worrying about environmental factors. Cleaner and more efficient energy independence could be a game changer not only for Iceland but for the entire world.
Space Solar innovation: energy available 24/7
This space-based solar plant is far more than a futuristic concept: it is a solution designed to operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Unlike traditional solar plants that depend on sunlight, Space Solar’s technology guarantees continuous energy delivery. This uninterrupted operation makes the technology a viable and scalable solution for the future of global energy.
A competitive advantage for Iceland and the world
The first Space Solar plant is scheduled to begin operations in 2030 and represents just the beginning of a large-scale plan. Space Solar aims to expand its capacity to several gigawatts (GW) by 2036, potentially allowing Iceland to meet a significant portion of its energy needs in a clean and sustainable way. This means the benefits will not be limited to Iceland; space-based solar energy could become a viable and cost-effective alternative for any country seeking to reduce carbon emissions.
Innovation backed by experts and safe technology
Space Solar has left nothing to chance in this project. With an investment of £5 million in research and development, the company has developed a radio wave transmission technology that is safe, efficient and adaptable. Reykjavik Energy’s experience in sustainability projects such as carbon capture and storage through its subsidiary Carbfix strengthens the partnership, adding expertise and local implementation capacity.
Results that impact the economy and the planet
The impact of this technology goes beyond sustainability. According to a study by Imperial College London, the use of space-based solar energy could reduce energy costs in the UK by more than £4 billion per year. This cost reduction shows that Space Solar’s technology is not only sustainable but also economically viable, delivering long-term benefits for both consumers and national power grids.
Martin Soltau, co-CEO of Space Solar, highlights that space-based solar energy represents an “unmatched advantage, with competitive energy costs and continuous availability.” The collaboration with Reykjavik Energy, he adds, is an exciting step toward a future where energy is not limited by borders or environmental conditions.
A model for the world: Iceland leading the energy transition
The agreement between Space Solar and Reykjavik Energy goes far beyond symbolism: it represents a real shift toward a zero-emissions world. If successful, the project could be replicated in other countries interested in integrating space-based solar energy into their grids, such as Canada and Japan, becoming a global model of energy innovation.
Such partnerships are not only promising for Iceland but also inspire other countries in their fight against climate change and their pursuit of sustainability. By combining advanced technology with a commitment to a cleaner planet, Space Solar is positioning Iceland as a global leader in energy innovation.
A future of clean and constant energy is within reach
Imagine a world where energy is received directly from space, without interruptions and without pollution. This Space Solar project, in collaboration with Reykjavik Energy, could be the first step toward a future of zero-emission energy that is accessible and constant. It is not just a technical breakthrough; it is a model for a cleaner and more sustainable world.
With the space-based solar plant planned for 2030, Iceland is preparing to mark a turning point in the energy transition. This agreement not only secures a reliable source of clean energy for the country but also opens the door to a new era where space technology plays a key role in the fight against climate change. Space-based solar energy is no longer a distant dream; it is a reality about to transform our world.
