Operations Optimization of Concentrating Solar Power Plants. I: Challenges and Opportunities

Solar power generation is a burgeoning new industry.  Two drivers for this new industry are a) the sun is a source of free, abundant (although cyclical and diffused), non-polluting energy, and b) the availability of incentives that are in place for “green producers”.

Most commercial solar power plants concentrate solar energy by use of reflecting mirrors that convert solar energy to thermal energy and then using the thermal energy to drive conventional steam/water Rankine Cycle to generate power.  The generated power is typically sold to the local power grid.  

Depending on the location, selling to the grid could be complex.  In one case, the process comprises daily, multi-round, auctions whereby the producer makes nominations typically 3 to 15 hours in advance.  There typically are economic penalties, sometimes severe, for deviating from the final nomination.

Typically such plants have limited thermal energy storage and supplementary firing capabilities which gives them some operational flexibility.  However, use of supplementary firing is typically subject to an annual maximum usage limit for the facility to be qualified as a “green producer” and thus benefit from the incentives. 

This paper will discuss the various challenges and possible alternatives to manage these challenges to maximize the profitability of operations of solar power plants.