Solar thermal power stations are designed with careful consideration of the solar multiple (SM), which refers to the ratio between the collector field size and the generator's rated capacity, as well as the duration of energy storage. Increasing the energy storage capacity can lead to a lower cost per unit of electricity, primarily because it helps reduce the loss of collected solar heat. However, optimizing the design of Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) systems requires a balanced approach—not only focusing on economic factors but also on the value that the CSP station provides in terms of energy and grid support.
The U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has used conventional planning Tools to evaluate various configurations of parabolic trough and tower-based CSP systems. Their analysis highlights key differences in performance and cost. In general, parabolic trough systems with thermal storage tend to be more expensive than their tower-based counterparts. This is largely due to the fact that trough systems experience greater fluctuations in output across seasons, leading to higher heat losses and lower overall thermal efficiency.
When comparing the value of solar power generated by cooling towers versus parabolic troughs, both technologies show comparable performance in terms of energy output. However, the choice between them often depends on specific system design and operational goals.
A recent study examined different SM values and varying levels of energy storage capacity. The findings indicate that when the power plant’s rated capacity is relatively high, the marginal value of a low-SM CSP system is maximized. This is because the energy storage system can effectively prevent the waste of collected solar energy. However, beyond 9 hours of storage, the value per kWh starts to decline.
Smaller SM systems are better suited for handling peak loads due to their flexibility and ability to respond quickly to demand changes. On the other hand, larger SM systems provide more stable and continuous power output, making them ideal for base load applications. Smaller SM systems also tend to offer a higher capacity value, which is a crucial factor in determining the overall value of a CSP plant. With proper scheduling and forecasting of solar resources, CSP plants can achieve capacity values similar to those of traditional fossil fuel power plants.
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