Wireless power transmission using microwaves could offer a radically different way to move electricity over long distances without physical cables. Various applications ranging from drones and electric aircraft to cross-continental power trading and space-based solar power would be conceivable. But the technology still faces major hurdles, including the size and cost of antennas, safety and public acceptance concerns, and relatively low overall transmission efficiency. Our cleantech analyst Peter Ruschhaupt sees near-term potential particularly in niche applications such as continuously powering agricultural drones, while larger-scale uses will require significantly higher efficiency and substantial investment in antenna infrastructure.
Learn more about in this month’s article from Handelsblatt:
This article is the latest in the series “Green ideas that might change the world” that Handelsblatt and Future Cleantech Architects co-developed to shed light on some of the most intensively debated cleantech innovations. We are pleased to provide scientific guidance to the series. Stay tuned for new releases!