by
Chuck Kutscher
July 20, 2009
Most people are familiar with photovoltaic modules, which convert direct and diffuse sunlight directly into electricity. But there is another solar electric technology that is more akin to a typical power plant. Concentrating solar power (CSP) technology focuses direct sunlight to achieve the high temperatures needed to efficiently run a thermodynamic heat engine. Resource studies have shown that even after practical limitations are taken into account, CSP located under clear skies in the Southwest could provide six times the current US national electricity capacity. The most established CSP technology, parabolic troughs, has been successfully providing over 350 megawatts of electricity in the Mojave Desert for over 20 years. This technology focuses sunlight onto a fluid-carrying pipe, which transfers heat to a boiler and runs a conventional steam cycle. Power towers, or central receivers, use a field of tracking mirrors (or heliostats) that focus sunlight onto a tower, again providing heat to a steam cycle. Parabolic dishes focus sunlight onto a small Stirling-cycle engine that generates electricity at each dish.
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