Power Relay Satellite Concept: GEO-based relay station(s) for power generated on Earth. Key Features: Large reflector in GEO Minimal investment in space deployed assets Ground based phased arrays and rectennae Suggestor/Source: Krafft Ehricke Discussion The dream of a complete intercontinental energy grid which would make more efficient use of the world's electricity production capacity is liindered by oceans, legal right of way issues, and the efficiencies and costs of long distance surface or subsurface power transmission systems. Ehricke and subsequent proposers have suggested using microwave power transmission via GEO reflectors to span long distances. Recent Japanese work (Kamimoto et al.) suggests that the cost of power relay may be of the order of 2 cents per kilowatt hour. Advantages Disadvantages Potential evolutionary step Utility company interest exists Synergy with electric OTVs powered from Earth 'Simple' reflector in space; complex units remain on Earth Does not produce power Requires a large and light structure with station keeping and pointing challenges.
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