Power supply could be anywhere form 500 kW to several MW. The price of this power would range from US $ 400 per kWh to US $ 50 per kWh respectively. Cost sensitivity of ISPO programs The main conclusions of the cost sensitivity analysis of ISPO programs are : 1. The most important cost factor is that of transportation of materials form earth to space. This accounts for more than 32% of total program costs. These transportation costs are very sensitive to the use of heavy launch vehicles which could seriously reduce the cost per kg launch into earth orbit. 2. The sensitivity of cost increases in the space and ground segments are roughly equal. The technical relarelation between these segments makes their total cost similar. 3. If cost changes are small (< 20%), then the effects on transportation, spacecraft, and ground segments are similar. Financial risk analysis The major financial risk areas that have been identified and will have to be managed effectively for successful ISPO programs are described below. Market risks The concept of space solar power supply for earth is not widely accepted. This will not be improved if the technology utilized does not show proven reliability at an acceptable cost. To manage this, technology must be improved at competitive production costs. Management risks Steps must be taken to avoid delays in project completion and to avoid poor cost prediction. The large sums of venture capital involved will mean that only ten or twenty percent cost increases could seriously affect the projects financial viability and continued ability to raise funding. These steps will be complicated by the complexities of international project management. Political risks A strong political commitment will be crucial to the success of ISPO due to the need for large international financing. Risk areas that could affect this commitment are: 1. Short term public fund allocation. 2. Delays introduced by the withdrawal of one partner. 3. Lack of technology transfer between countries. 4. The difficulties associated with obtaining public funds for space projects over short term terrestrial needs. Environmental Risk The environmental benefits of space solar power must be stressed to 'sell' the program effectively to the public. The risk areas that could affect this are: 1. Public acceptance of power beaming. 2. Pollution associated with the construction of space hardware and earth to space transportation. 3. Rectenna size and location. 4. Human safety while working in the space environment. 5. Environmental impact of large space structures which are visible from the earth. Technical Risks The main technical risks that need to be managed are those associated with program delays due to the development of new technologies and components.
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