Security gaps flagged in space-based solar power systems, with cyber and physical threats

Frazer-Nash Consultancy released a detailed paper warning that space-based solar power (SBSP), which promises to deliver consistent, around-the-clock energy and generate significant revenue, could face a wave of cyber and physical threats. As nations increasingly view these power systems as a critical pillar of their energy infrastructure, the report explores the geopolitical, social, and security challenges surrounding their development, including sabotage, extortion, and public misconceptions, while outlining high-level risk mitigations to protect these systems in a contested orbit.

Titled ‘Securing Space-Based Solar Power as Critical National Infrastructure,’ the Frazer-Nash document identified that SBSP systems represent a transformative technology with the potential to provide continuous, reliable power to national grids, impacting energy markets and critical infrastructure. These systems, like other critical energy infrastructures, are likely to become attractive targets for well-funded and organized adversaries throughout their lifecycle. 

The 33-page paper recognizes that the adoption and security of SBSP technology will heavily depend on public perception, especially regarding the safety and trustworthiness of power-beaming technology. The threat landscape for SBSP systems will evolve as adversaries develop more advanced tools and tactics, though resilience is also expected to improve with better counterthreat technologies.

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