Optimization and performance enhancement of concentrating solar power in a hot and arid desert environment

Abstract

The Concentrating Solar Power - Parabolic Trough (CSP-PT) technology with dry-cooled condenser system is an alternative option for arid climate locations such as Kuwait. In this work, the performance of various CSP-PT design configurations is evaluated, including 19 configurations that have been reported in the literature as being optimal. These have optimal Solar Multiple (SM) values based on the lowest Levelised Cost of Electricity (LCOE).Furthermore, an evaluation of CSP-PT with Thermal Energy Storage (TES), including wind power potential, is performed. It is revealed that coinciding peaks of electrical load, solar, and wind resources promote co-generation from CSP-PT/TES and wind power with significant benefits. Also, the wind speed is found to be at maximum levels at high altitudes in the early daytime and late nighttime. Whereas in the afternoon, it reaches maximum values at low altitudes. The calculated wind shear exponent is between 0.14-0.18 and showing a cyclic behavior. Such findings promote mega-scale wind power generation.From the techno-economic assessment, it is concluded that the SM value for optimal CSP-PT/TES configuration increases with an increasing number of full load hours of storage (NhTES). In addition, the NhTES has significant effects on the annual energy generation, capacity factor, and LCOE. However, the impact of NhTES on the annual overall plant efficiency is insignificant. Furthermore, the optimal SM and lowest LCOE values are determined. Also, the periods of 24 h continuous electricity generation from CSP-PT/TES without fossil backup have been identified.