Concentration PV Plants

Among CSP technologies, trough systems are the most mature and have a long track record that demonstrates their reliability in large-scale applications. Trough systems have been running since the 1980s, and in that time have seen dramatic improvements in performance and cost. Currently there are more than 300 MW of trough systems in operation, with 400 MW under construction and approximately 6 GW in development.

Some of the benefits of CSP for utilities:

• CSP can be easily integrated into conventional power cycle plants or combined cycles at low additional cost. Electricity from CSP technology is generated like conventional electricity generation, except solar power is used to provide heat instead of a boiler running on fossil fuels.
• CSP is nearly ideal for supplying peak electricity demands. During recent summers, the peak demands for electricity has been far greater than winter peak demands. This is largely due to the use of air conditioning. CSP plants provide the most electricity during the hottest part of the day, when air conditioners are being used most.
• CSP energy can be managed with hybridization and storage. Solar energy is easily converted into electricity during daylight hours. By using a storage tank or a hybrid fossil fuel system, CSP plants can provide clean and consistent electricity during non-daylight hours as well.