Funding for incredible new space technologies will help to cut UK carbon emissions, improve energy security, and enhance the UK’s reputation as a science superpower, according to Kwasi Kwarteng.
£3 million of grant funding has been allocated for space-based solar power (SBSP) projects that can utilise the Sun’s energy using solar panels orbiting the Earth. These will then deliver clean energy day and night, unaffected by weather.
The new tech holds the potential to boost energy security by providing reliable, affordable alternatives to expensive and volatile fossil fuels. Funding will also be made available for cutting-edge weather monitoring sensors to aid more accurate weather forecasts. Sensors will be sent into orbit thanks to a partnership with Spire Global.
The Hyperspectral Microwave Sounder (HYMS) developed by the Science and Technology Facilities Council’s RAL Space will help meteorological agencies and businesses around the world with planning, shipping, and flood warnings. It is thought to be up to 4 times as powerful as the sensors used on existing satellites.
The government’s commitment to the sector is demonstrated by the appointment of MP David Morris as the first ever National Space Champion. This role will work tightly with the industry to ensure the UK’s space sector continues to grow, attract investment, and develop innovative products.
Business and Energy Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said:
“Space-based solar power could provide an affordable, clean and reliable source of energy for the whole world to benefit from, helping the move away from expensive fossil fuels. Today’s investment is an exciting example of how we can go even further in our ambitions to make the UK a science superpower.
I am also delighted that the HYMS technology, developed in Oxfordshire, will be put into service by Spire Global to help improve weather forecasting.
These projects are major milestones for our National Space Strategy, developing the UK’s space capabilities while boosting the economy and delivering high-skill jobs.”
National Space Champion David Morris MP said:
“It is a privilege to be asked to be the first UK National Space Champion and the appointment shows the government’s commitment to the sector and its commitment to its growth.
The UK space sector is fast becoming a world leader and I look forward to being a champion for the industry within government to ensure we are able to spearhead the industry to even further growth.
An independent report found significant commercial potential in developing SBSP’s underlying technologies as products in their own right – particularly with regards to wireless power transmission and solar power.
Similarly, the HYMS occupies a footprint fifty times smaller than current technology, which makes it possible to launch dozens of HYMS-equipped satellites, together forming a constellation that can track fast moving extreme weather events such as hurricanes.”
Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said:
“Satellite technology is helping us solve some of the most significant challenges we face. We’re working with the space sector to drive innovation, catalyse investment and bring tangible benefits to people and businesses across the UK.
As these 2 new projects show, space is not only vital in helping us monitor the weather and our environment, it can also provide new solutions to our future energy needs and support the global fight against climate change.
I would like also like to welcome the appointment of a National Space Champion and I look forward to working with David Morris to support our growing sector.”
Customer Billing – Will I Be Affected?
As already mentioned, energy costs are spiralling – and the price rises are affecting all of us. For UK energy customers it is difficult to say how your bills will be affected due to the serious volatility in the energy markets. It is important to remember that energy prices as a whole are rising, and this will be passed onto consumers through energy bills, making it something to keep a close eye on.
Different suppliers will feel the pinch in different ways so it is crucial to be aware of the current situation your energy supplier finds themselves in. It is possible to view up to date supplier profiles with any recent changes for all of the energy suppliers in the UK, here.
At a time where bills look set to rise due to market volatility, it is also a good idea to ensure that you are not being overcharged for any of your utilities. It can be a tricky task to navigate but there are free online tools to remove the hassle available.
You can find a free online Gas Bill Calculator to see if you are being overcharged, here.
You can find a free online Electricity Bill Calculator to see if you are being overcharged, here.
Energy Solutions by Us, for You
At a time of great uncertainty in global energy markets, it is easy to feel lost in it all.
Keeping up to date with developing situations and the associated ramifications is a tricky and time-consuming job. It is also one that is not likely a priority for you and your business.
So, what do you do?
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Energy Solutions have been trusted brokers for countless businesses for over twenty years, which means we know how to navigate the energy markets during a time of uncertainty.
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