China advances "space power bank" technology with new wireless energy breakthrough

Chinese researchers have completed ground verification of an advanced wireless power transmission system designed for future space-based solar power stations. According to Global Times, a partner of TV BRICS, the system can transmit kilowatt-level energy wirelessly to several moving targets at the same time.

The project, known as "Zhuri" or "sun chasing", is led by Duan Baoyan, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and professor at Xidian University. Researchers developed a 75-metre-high ground testing facility capable of simulating the full process of space-based solar energy transmission before future orbital deployment.

A space solar power station would use large photovoltaic panels positioned in orbit to continuously collect solar energy without atmospheric interference or interruptions caused by the day-night cycle. The electricity generated in space could then be transmitted wirelessly to satellites, drones, ground-based infrastructure and future deep-space spacecraft.

The research team previously completed the world’s first full-link ground verification system for a space solar power station in 2022, successfully demonstrating the entire process from solar energy collection and photovoltaic conversion to microwave transmission and wireless power reception. Following nearly four years of further development, the project has now evolved from fixed point-to-point transmission to the simultaneous delivery of power to multiple moving targets.

Recent tests showed that the system achieved wireless power transmission efficiency of 20.8 per cent over a distance of 100 metres while delivering 1,180 watts of power. Fan Guanheng, associate professor from the School of Mechano-Electronic Engineering, Xidian University, stated that future space-based solar power stations could provide uninterrupted clean energy around the clock, support reductions in carbon emissions and create new opportunities for powering spacecraft through orbital charging systems.