<title>Operation and efficiency of large-scale solar thermal power plants</title>

Abstract

Nine large solar thermal power plants, 15 - 80 MWe in scale, located in Southern California's Mojave Desert, are proving since 1985 that power solar technology is a working reality. These plants produce over 90% of solar electric generation in the world. This paper provides summary information, more particularly on five of the SEGS (Solar Electric Generating Systems) plants located at Kramer Junction, and operated by KJC Operating Company. General description of the plants and the technologies involved are discussed with an overview of performance after five years of full operation.