Performance modeling and techno-economic analysis of a modular concentrated solar power tower with latent heat storage. (1st May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rea, Jonathan E.; Oshman, Christopher J.; Olsen, Michele L.; Hardin, Corey L.; Glatzmaier, Greg C.; Siegel, Nathan P.; Parilla, Philip A.; Ginley, David S.; Toberer, Eric S.
• Is Part Of: Applied energy. Volume 217(2018)
• Page Start: 143
• Page End: 152
• Publication Date: 2018-05-01
• Subjects: Concentrated solar power -- Latent heat storage -- System modeling -- Thermodynamic modeling -- Techno-economic modeling; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy conservation -- Periodicals; Energy conversion -- Periodicals; 621.042
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2018.02.067
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-2619

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: Original thermal and cost analysis of a new solar power tower concept. Potential for renewable, dispatchable electricity at low cost. Modularity opens concentrated solar power to new markets. In-depth comparison to alternative technologies. Abstract: In this paper, we present performance simulations and techno-economic analysis of a modular dispatchable solar power tower. Using a heliostat field and power block three orders of magnitude smaller than conventional solar power towers, our unique configuration locates thermal storage and a power block directly on a tower receiver. To make the system dispatchable, a valved thermosyphon controls heat flow from a latent heat thermal storage tank to a Stirling engine. The modular design results in minimal balance of system costs and enables high deployment rates with a rapid realization of economies of scale. In this new analysis, we combine performance simulations with techno-economic analysis to evaluate levelized cost of electricity, and find that the system has potential for cost-competitiveness with natural gas peaking plants and alternative dispatchable renewables.