Abstract
In this paper, the technological advances in concentrating solar power are reviewed. A comprehensive system approach within this scope is attempted to include advances of highly specialized developments in all aspects of the technology. Advances in geometric optics for enhancement in solar concentration and temperature are reviewed along with receiver configurations for efficient heat transfer. Advances in sensible and latent heat storage materials, as well as development in thermochemical processes, are also reviewed in conjunction with efficient system integration as well as alternative energy generation technologies. This comprehensive approach aims in highlighting promising concentrating solar power components for further development and wider solar energy utilization.
Highlights
Concentrating solar power (CSP) is one important option for utilization of the solar energy resource, whilst at the same time increasing the energy mix of existing power plants
The optical concentration ratios with the Solar power tower (SPT) solar thermal power plants can range from 600 to 1000 suns, the temperature of the working medium and, eventually, the produced steam is higher than parabolic trough collectors
Sensible and latent heat storage systems are currently utilized in thermal storage processes, including solar thermal power plants, while thermochemical heat storage systems are in the development stage
Summary
Concentrating solar power (CSP) is one important option for utilization of the solar energy resource, whilst at the same time increasing the energy mix of existing power plants. Similar to the parabolic solar collectors, thermal energy is absorbed in the receiver by a working fluid, which can be a synthetic oil, a water–steam mixture or a molten salt. If the receivers are installed close enough to each other, each single reflector will have the option to focus between two alternative receivers for the concentration of the reflected solar radiation This option constitutes the solution for the above-mentioned shading and blocking problem of the incident solar radiation from neighboring reflectors, offering the possibility for a denser siting of the Fresnel reflector lines. The denser siting of the Fresnel reflectors imposes lower total length of the absorber tubes and higher installed power per occupied land unit, which, in turn, contributes to the reduction of the thermal energy losses to the ambient and the total set-up cost of the solar thermal power plant. The main advantages of the LFR are lower set-up and operation costs compared to alternative concentrating solar power technologies, due to simplified installations and restricted maintenance requirements
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