PG&E has invested in Solaren, a company that plans to put a power collector in orbit and transmit that power to the surface using microwaves. These are not the microwaves we have in the kitchen, but the actual radio frequency that gave the magic box its name.

Apparently the width of the signal would be widespread so that it does not fry a passing plane or migrating bird. However, I wonder what happens to the birds homing instincts. What about reproductive harm?

If you really step back for a moment, there is a bigger problem. We are trying to reduce global warming through sustainable technology. While this would be sustainable, it is forcing energy from the sun that would normally be blocked by the atmosphere down to the surface and warming everything along the way. This seems self defeating, not to mention dangerous and expensive. What about the CO2 emissions to put the thing together and deliver it to orbit?

I think this is a great idea for a science fiction movie.

I also think, if we are going to put a huge item in space it should be made by Ray Ban, Revo or Oakley. Lets put up a lens that makes the sky look deep blue while reducing the solar heating. When things chill out enough, we can hit it with a rocket and the shattered pieces will vaporize and rejoin the planet on re-entry. If this lunacy works, we could continue using fossil fuels while we research better options without worry. If this becomes reality, I want some credit for it! ; )

Well, my point is simply that I don't think this was thought all the way through and I want these questions answered thoroughly before I will be comfortable with the idea.

By the way, PG&E is only mentioned in a Q&A on the next100.com interview with Solaren CEO. He says PG&E entered a purchase agreement for the power from the system and delivery of power would start in 2016.

Click the related link for the interview.