Commercial activity on the Moon could generate up to US$127.3 billion by 2050, driven by expanding interest in lunar operations, according to the latest PwC Lunar Market Assessment.
The report identifies solar energy systems as a priority technology but notes that reliable power remains a critical challenge for sustainable missions.
Mihails Ščepanskis, CEO of Deep Space Energy, stressed that solar panels alone cannot support operations during the Moon’s 14-day nights, when temperatures can drop below –170°C.
“Reliable surface energy is still one of the biggest gaps on the Moon,” he said, noting that mobile platforms like rovers and scouting vehicles will require compact, non-solar power systems such as radioisotope generators.
NASA has recently adjusted its Artemis Moon landing programme in line with these operational challenges, introducing a preparatory test of commercial landers in Earth’s orbit in 2027, a year ahead of planned crewed lunar missions in 2028.
The move aims to reduce mission risks and incrementally validate systems before surface operations, underscoring the complexity of sustaining long-term lunar activity.
PwC’s assessment highlights that beyond exploration, economic returns from the Moon will depend on reliable infrastructure and energy solutions.
Experts say a combination of solar systems, nuclear reactors for stationary bases and compact non-solar power for mobility will be key to unlocking the full potential of the projected US$127 billion Moon economy.
