Solar thermal power generation situation in Central Asia

Can energy storage solve transboundary water and energy conflict in Central Asia?

A solution for transboundary water and energy conflict in Central Asia is proposed. Benefits of energy storage beyond the energy sector are shown. Long duration energy storage is key for high shares of solar PV and wind energy in the region. An open-access, integrated water and energy system model of Central Asia is developed.

Will the energy transition take place in Central Asia?

There are no indications that the energy transition in the countries of Central Asia will take place according to the standards of the European Union or global bodies. On the other hand, having in mind the natural resources of the mentioned countries and the specific geopolitical position, monitoring the changes is of special importance.

Why is energy exploitation a problem in Central Asian countries?

First of all, the exploitation of energy resources and energy consumption in Central Asian countries is a particularly challenging issue when it comes to climate change because energy and climate change are closely linked. There are no reliable data on the emission of gases that cause climate change.

What indicators can be used to describe energy transition in Central Asia?

The International Energy Agency does not currently offer the possibility to use two important indicators that would greatly help to describe the status of energy transition in Central Asia: energy poverty, stability of energy infrastructure, power outages and the share of household income allocated for the payment of energy.

Is concentrated solar power feasible in hot and dry Indian climate?

Goyal N, Aggarwal A, Kumar A. Financial feasibility of concentrated solar power with and without sensible heat storage in hot and dry Indian climate. J Energy Storage. 2022;52:105002. Kumar S, Agarwal A, Kumar A. Financial viability assessment of concentrated solar power technologies under Indian climatic conditions.

What are the open challenges for the future of solar power?

Open challenges for the next future are summarized. Among the diverse technologies for producing clean energy through concentrated solar power, central tower plants are believed to be the most promising in the next years. In these plants a heliostat field collects and redirects solar irradiance towards a central receiver where a fluid is heated up.