Abstract
The proposed silicon version of the Solar Satellite Power System (SPS) is analyzed to determine its net energy ratio, loosely defined as the net energy output of the SPSP divided by the energy required to build, operate, and maintain the system. This ratio is then compared to (1) similar ratios calculated in previous studies of the SPS, and (2) the net energy ratio of conventional nuclear and coal-fired electricity generation plants. In this study we also investigated the effect on the energy ratio of (1) a changing solar array technology; (2) nonzero discount rates on future energy use and production; and (3) a laser annealing system to repair solar array damage caused by cosmic radiation.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 319-343 |
| Number of pages | 25 |
| Journal | Energy systems and policy |
| Volume | 5 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| State | Published - 1981 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Engineering