When typhoons and earthquakes cause utility infrastructure to collapse, it can turn a local crisis into a national one. Light sources for nighttime rescue operations are not always available when the power systems are down.
The ability of first responders to find and rescue survivors in an emergency can be greatly improved by power beam delivery through aerial platforms. It can take a long time for damaged utility infrastructure to be fixed.
Kasmi says that the idea of portable, pop-up energy installations that can either power generators or plug into grid infrastructure would transform humanitarian recovery.
Power beaming is the point-to-point transfer of electrical energy by a directed beam of microwaves or lasers. Laser-based approaches have shown promise in recent trials and demonstrations. Smaller transmission and receiver installations are possible because of the laser-based power beam.
Laser beams take electricity from a readily available source, convert it into light using lasers, and project it through open air through optical fiber. The solar cells at the receiving end convert the intense light into electricity.
According to Kasmi, the technology is a focus for DERC because it could help solve challenges such as provision of internet and connectivity for those in remote areas. As the world braces for more frequent extreme weather events, it could boost post disaster humanitarian aid.
Climate change means there is no shortage of need. 5.1 million homes and businesses in the southeastern U.S. were without power after Hurricane Ian hit in September. The electrical grid and power stations were protected during the floods. Millions of people in the Philippines were without electricity due to a typhoon. Damage to utility infrastructure can cause grave damage to energy systems, as was seen in the 2014–2018 2014–2018 2014–2018.
Finding ways to support longer-distance transmission and improving efficiency are some of the technical obstacles to overcome. There is a need for a public education campaign to assure people of their health concerns. In a century with more extreme natural disasters, power beamed could be a powerful new capability.
Humanitarian applications of directed-energy technology could prove to be the most significant improvement in the sector. Two examples of the use of directed energy to aid in humanitarian preparedness, response, and recovery are ground-penetrating radar and laser-based power beamed.
This article was produced by Insights, the custom content arm of MIT Technology Review. It was not written by MIT Technology Review’s editorial staff.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
