Suitable occasions for solar thermal power generation

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.

Should solar thermal power plants be a viable alternative to fossil-fuel power plants?

In sunny countries, a new solar thermal power plant project is usually one of the possible alternatives for generating electricity from renewable energy sources, which are still in com-petition with fossil-fuel power plants. In this competition, the cost of electricity generation plays a decisive role.

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.

Are solar thermal power plants controllable?

Since power generation can be flexibly adapted to demand, solar thermal power plants are referred to as controllable power plants. Solar thermal power plants have an additional advantage. If there is little solar radiation for several days due to the weather, they can be operated in hybrid mode.

Can solar thermal power plants be used in sunny countries?

In energy systems in sunny countries that rely on renewable energy sources, solar thermal instead of fossil fuel power plants will be able to supply cost-effective base-load and peak-load electricity at low cost and stabilise the power grids.

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.