Technoeconomic Assessment of a Gossamer, Planar, Gigawatt-Scale Space-Based Solar Power System

Abstract

This thesis aims to analyze space-based solar power (SBSP) from both technical and financial standpoints. While the analysis is mainly purposed to validate the findings of existing literature on SBSP, it also seeks to identify the problems that need to be addressed for SBSP to become technically and financially viable. The technical analysis has been performed using the systemstheory method—a sequential process that involves stakeholder analysis, requirements derivation, preliminary concept generation, system decomposition, metrics formulation, architectural decision-making, and tradespace analysis. As for the financial feasibility, the assessment has been based on two metrics: the net present value (NPV) and the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). Although SBSP is deemed practical from an engineering perspective, the study concludes that it has yet to make financial sense. Its technical practicality is evidenced by the fact that all the components of a SBSP system are demonstrably operable. This thesis proposes a design that is expected to have a specific power of 91.5 W/kg, comparable to the specific power estimated for Caltech’s SSPP concept (98 W/kg). In contrast, NASA’s SPS-ALPHA concept has reportedly been designed to achieve a specific power of 57 W/kg. The financial infeasibility has been proven by the negative NPV and the exorbitant LCOE for all the scenarios considered. The validity of the NPV and LCOE calculated is bound by the accuracy of the estimated costs, especially the cost of satellites, which, contrary to prevailing studies, constitutes most of the system’s cost. For the NPV and LCOE to merit further consideration of SBSP, this thesis recommends boosting the efficiency-to-areal-density ratio of the PV array. This can be achieved by optimizing reflectors that are light enough to improve the efficiency-to-areal-density ratio of the planar structure yet rigid enough to resist deformation. This thesis also recommends improving the efficiency-to-areal-density ratio of the RF signal generator and transmission antenna by leveraging miniaturization techniques to unify the two components into a compact, cohesive module. Alternatively, a new set of materials should be explored for all three components through ongoing research.