Exploring the UAE’s Pursuit of Space-Based Solar Power and Its Role in Sustainable Energy with Kavan Choksi

 

 

Kavan Choksi on Why the UAE Is Exploring Solar Power Collection from Orbit for Future Energy Security

The UAE has made headlines in recent years for its progressive investments in renewable energy, and one of its latest areas of interest is ambition beyond Earth’s surface. Space-based solar power, or SBSP, is a concept that involves collecting solar energy in orbit and transmitting it wirelessly to Earth. Kavan Choksi notes that this technology, once considered purely speculative, is now being actively studied by the UAE as part of its long-term energy strategy.

Unlike ground-based solar farms, orbital solar arrays are not affected by weather or the planet’s day-night cycle. It means they could potentially deliver continuous, clean energy to Earth-based stations around the clock. While the technology is still in development, the UAE sees potential in adopting it early as part of its broader sustainability goals.

 Why Space-Based Solar Appeals to the UAE

The UAE is no stranger to harsh environmental conditions. Limited land for large-scale agriculture, high temperatures and frequent dust storms make it an ideal candidate for solutions that bypass Earth’s surface altogether. Orbital energy systems offer one such opportunity. If solar panels are deployed in space, they can absorb high-intensity solar radiation without atmospheric interference. The collected energy can then be converted to microwaves or laser beams and transmitted to Earth, where specialized receivers, called rectennas, convert it back into usable electricity.

For a country aiming to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, space-based solar power represents both a technological leap and a form of strategic insurance. It aligns well with the UAE’s reputation for forward-thinking investments in areas like AI, satellite technology, and climate resilience.

Partnerships and Research Momentum

The UAE has begun collaborating with international agencies, universities and aerospace firms to study the practical implementation of orbital solar power. While still in the early phases, these partnerships signal that the country is serious about exploring next-generation energy sources. Projects may involve small-scale satellite trials to test solar collection and beaming efficiency.

Some proposals also explore the integration of space-based energy systems into future lunar or Martian infrastructure, further extending the vision of extraterrestrial sustainability. The UAE’s space agency has already demonstrated its capability through missions like the Hope Probe to Mars. Building on this foundation, the pursuit of SBSP appears to be a logical next step in its expanding aerospace agenda.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite its promise, space-based solar power faces significant hurdles. The cost of launching and assembling large solar structures in space remains high. Precision in energy transmission and the environmental impact of microwave beams are also areas under investigation.

The global energy landscape is developing quickly, and breakthrough technologies can emerge rapidly when paired with sufficient funding and policy support. The UAE’s willingness to invest in high-risk, high-reward energy systems shows a long-term perspective that few nations can match.

A Vision That Extends Beyond Borders

Space-based solar power is not just about domestic energy production. If successful, it could transform how countries trade, store and share electricity. The UAE’s involvement could position it as a leader in global clean energy collaboration, helping to set standards and frameworks for space energy governance.

Kavan Choksi notes that this vision fits the UAE’s broader narrative of a small nation with big ambitions using innovation to shape its future. By exploring orbital energy solutions now, the UAE is laying the groundwork for a more resilient and sustainable tomorrow, both on Earth and beyond.