Adapting Microwave Techniques to Help Solve Future Energy Problems

The relationship between microwave techniques and the growing concern for future sources of energy is reviewed. The relationship is specifically explored in the use of a microwave beam to efficiently transport power from an array of solar photovoltaic cells in space to the earth's surface. The transition from a laboratory technology of microwave power transmission to a 10-GW 23 200-mi transmission system is examined in detail.