LATEST WORLDWIDE DEVELOPMENTS IN MOLTEN SALT TECHNOLOGY AND APPLICATIONS

Abstract

Molten salt (MS) storage systems in the 565°C range can store green solar energy from thermal solar power station, such as the Crescent Dunes solar plant in Nevada. Large containers can be used to store energy and generate electricity for eight hours or more to be used at night or during peak demand hours, depending on the container size. Energy storage can reduce the fluctuation due to weather conditions experienced at thermal solar power stations because stable diurnal energy supply is made available by MS energy storage. Supported by the Office of Naval Research (ONR), the research presented discusses the recent technological developments associated with the use of molten salts for energy storage. In addition to their use for storing excess solar energy, molten salts are starting to be used in nuclear or hybrid power production. One particular aspect of interest is the focus using higher temperature salts to provide even more energy storage than conventional molten salts. One such salt, SaltStream700, allows for the use of molten salts at temperatures of 700°C. A summary of worldwide examples of concentrating solar power (CSP) plants is presented. Commercial solar power stations have been constructed in the United States and overseas, particularly in Spain, with molten salt being considered for use in these facilities.