I'd even suspect that this particular direction of applied research may turn counterproductive. We have means to efficiently transfer energy from space in a form of microwave. If we - DARPA first, then necessarily its counterparts from other countries - perfect laser-based energy transfer, it would be harder to oppose laser use for energy transfer from space - all while opening a window to the use of it as a weapon. Technological progress can' be stopped, of course, but this area seems out of order in time.