Solar thermal power generation maintenance

How to choose a solar thermal power plant?

Solar thermal power plants for electricity production include, at least, two main systems: the solar field and the power block. Regarding this last one, the particular thermodynamic cycle layout and the working fluid employed, have a decisive influence in the plant performance. In turn, this selection depends on the solar technology employed.

Can solar thermal power plants be integrated with conventional power plants?

Solar thermal power plants have enormous potential to be integrated with the existing conventional power plants. The integration of CSP systems with conventional power plants increases the efficiency, reduces the overall cost, and increases the dispatchability and reliability of the solar power generation system.

Which thermodynamic cycle is used for solar thermal power generation?

Rankine, Brayton, and Stirling cycle are commonly used thermodynamic cycles for solar thermal power generation. The integration of thermal energy storage and hybridization of solar thermal energy systems with conventional power generation systems improves the performance and dispatchability of the solar thermal systems.

How can solar thermal components reduce the cost of electricity generation?

Advancements in the design of the solar thermal components improve the performance and consequently reduce the cost of electricity generation. This chapter discusses all the available CSP technologies and highlights the various design and operational parameters on which the overall efficiency of the solar power plants depends.

What are solar thermal technologies for power generation?

This chapter also covers the recent developments in solar thermal technologies for power generation. In recent times, solar thermal technologies are integrated with conventional fossil-fuelled power plants as well as other renewable energy sources such as biomass, geothermal to improve its performance.

How solar thermal system can be used in process industry?

The solar thermal system can be integrated with the central steam/hot water supply system of the process industry (Fig. 2). Apart from power generation and process heating, the solar thermal system can also be used for various applications such as air-conditioning, space heating, cooling, cooking desalination, etc. (Kalogirou, 2004). 4.1.