Solar Thermal

  • Solar thermal electric systems operating in the US today meet the needs of over 350,000 people (equal to the population of the city of Fresno, CA or Miami, FL)
  • These systems displace the equivalent of 2.3 million barrels of oil annually
  • Near Kuraymat in Egypt, some 40MW of energy converted from steam is used as input for a gas powered plant
  • Proposed plants include:
    • 553MW new capacity is proposed in Mojava Solar Park, California
    • 59MW hybrid plant with heat storage is proposed near Barswtow, California
    • Andasol 1 and Andasol 2 planned for construction in Spain with 50 MW capacities each
  • These systems are only expensive because solar thermal plants pay 1.7 times the taxes of natural gas plants

Solar Tower

System of heliostats (reflective materials focused on center) heats a molten salt/ heat-conductive material which falls to heat generator, steam engine. This set up is also very efficient in low light settings. And it can be hybrid with a natural gas facility





Parabolic Dish
A set of parabolic shaped reflectors to focus heat energy on heat transfer material. Increase solar energy by 30-60 percent. It is cost efficient but weaker than the other systems. Similar to a satellite TV dish which focuses electromagnetic waves in a point. The heat is converted into electricity using a stirling engines or steam engines. Requires moving part, however the dish achieves high temperatures.

 

Satellite Trough:

Satellite dishes focused on one line. This line (pipe) is filled with certain oils or molten salt to conduct heat to generator. Good for portability and cheap price. Effective for individual households. Highest power conversion ratio, 30%. All can have angles controlled by computer to maximize efficiency. It can also be done with flat panels instead of parabolic panels for a simplified version.

 

 

 

This solar thermal power plant located in the Mojave Desert in Kramer Junction, California, is one of nine such plants built in the 1980s. During operation, oil in the receiver tubes collects the concentrated solar energy as heat and is pumped to a power block (in background) for generating electricity.

Pros:

  • Very cost efficient
  • Household implementation viable
  • Simple set up for individuals
  • Portable
  • High energy conversion rates
  • Minimal upkeep fees

Cons:

  • Heat conductive material can be dangerous
  • Can take a vast amount of space