What is concentrating solar power (CSP)?

Working with member countries, SolarPACES —Solar Power and Chemical Energy Systems—has compiled data on concentrating solar power (CSP) projects around the world. CSP technologies include parabolic trough, linear Fresnel reflector, power tower, and dish/engine systems.

What data and tools are available for concentrating solar power (CSP)?

SAM users can input a number of parameters to derive detailed project performance and cost analyses. The following data and tools with respect to concentrating solar power (CSP) include databases, maps, and tools produced almost exclusively by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

What is concentrated solar technology?

Concentrated-solar technology systems use mirrors or lenses with tracking systems to focus a large area of sunlight onto a small area. The concentrated light is then used as heat or as a heat source for a conventional power plant (solar thermoelectricity).

When did concentrated solar start?

No commercial concentrated solar was constructed from 1990 when SEGS was completed until 2006 when the Compact linear Fresnel reflector system at Liddell Power Station in Australia was built. Few other plants were built with this design although the 5 MW Kimberlina Solar Thermal Energy Plant opened in 2009.

Where are solar power plants located?

The PS10 and PS20 solar power plant near Seville, in Andalusia, Spain. The Ivanpah solar project in San Bernardino, California, United States. The Andasol Solar Power Station, Spain, uses a molten salt thermal energy storage to generate electricity, even when the sun isn't shining. Parts of the Solnova Solar Power Station in the foreground.

What is a solar concentrator used for?

The concentrated light is then used as heat or as a heat source for a conventional power plant (solar thermoelectricity). The solar concentrators used in CSP systems can often also be used to provide industrial process heating or cooling, such as in solar air conditioning.