|
Research
Publications
Prospective Students
Events
People
Search
Seminars
Links
Home
|
2009-10 Seminars
Solar Thermal Demonstration Program
Cara Libby
Project Manager
EPRI
Abstract
As fossil fuel prices rise and emission
allowances are implemented, solar thermal hybrids
may be an attractive option for energy companies.
The system utilizes steam generated by a
concentrating solar thermal mirror field paired with
a conventional fossil fuel-powered steam cycle,
offsetting some of the fuel required to generate
power. Many energy companies are interested in
adding solar power to their generating mix, but
today most solar applications are not
cost-competitive with other power generating
options. Solar augmentation potentially is the
lowest cost option for adding solar power to the
generation fleet. It also provides a hedge against
fuel price fluctuations and reduces plant emissions.
The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI)
conducted two studies (one natural gas combined
cycle plant and one pulverized coal plant) to
determine the technical and economic feasibility of
various solar thermal hybrid designs. The projects
investigated the best options for adding
concentrating solar thermal energy to existing
fossil fuel-powered steam cycles, including site
evaluation considerations, solar technology
selection, fossil plant equipment limitations,
operations and maintenance requirements, and
economic implications.
|
