The Solaris initiative could be a practical plan for developing a space-based renewable energy generation system, addressing future energy shortages and reducing fossil fuel-based energy production.
The plummeting cost of launches, robotic construction in space, and technological advances that enable the wireless transfer of electricity from space to earth have made the project more feasible.
The ESA is seeking funding from its member nations for a research program to develop space-based solar power reliably and cheaply enough to make it economically viable.
Engineers have demonstrated the possibility of transmitting electricity wirelessly safely and efficiently, showing the potential for space-based solar power to be a reality.
The Sun's energy is collected more efficiently in space as there are no nights or clouds, and giant satellites in orbit could generate the same amount of electricity as a power station.
Space Solar, a company in the UK, aims to demonstrate beaming power from space commercially within nine years.
With increased funding and greater political support, space-based solar power could be a reality within a decade and could be the generation's equivalent of the moon shot.