How to choose a solar thermal power plant?

Solar thermal power plants for electricity production include, at least, two main systems: the solar field and the power block. Regarding this last one, the particular thermodynamic cycle layout and the working fluid employed, have a decisive influence in the plant performance. In turn, this selection depends on the solar technology employed.

Why are solar thermal power plants important?

Since solar thermal power plants can feed their electricity into the power grid even after sunset, they are of particular value for an energy system based on renewable energy sources. Solar thermal power plants are of strategic importance in sunny countries to be able to phase out coal and gas power plants in the future.

Can solar thermal power plants be integrated with conventional power plants?

Solar thermal power plants have enormous potential to be integrated with the existing conventional power plants. The integration of CSP systems with conventional power plants increases the efficiency, reduces the overall cost, and increases the dispatchability and reliability of the solar power generation system.

What is a solar thermal power plant?

Since steam turbines can only be operated economically above a certain minimum size, today’s solar thermal power plants have rated outputs in the range of 50 to 200 megawatts. The main difference to a conventional steam power plant is the solar field, which supplies the heat for the steam generator.

How do solar thermal power plants work?

Solar thermal power plants therefore rely on the storage of the intermediate product heat and not the end product electricity. Electricity is generated by means of a steam turbine cycle, which is oper-ated according to demand and is supplied from the thermal storage system.

What are the characteristics and economics of solar thermal energy systems?

Kalogirou (2003) analyzed the characteristics and economics of solar thermal energy systems such as flat plate, evacuated tubular, compound parabolic, and parabolic trough collectors for industrial applications such as paper, textile, chemical, food, and beverage industries (temperature range from 60 °C to 260 °C).