Concentrating solar power technology: Principles, developments and applications

Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) Technology represents one of the most advanced renewable energy systems capable of large scale power production. By concentrating direct sunlight using mirrors and/or lenses, much higher operating temperatures are achieved, allowing existing solar technologies to covert energy at much higher efficiencies than usual. CSP includes both Concentrating Solar Thermal (CST) as well as Concentrating Photovoltaic (CPV) systems, which can work in tandem to generate heat and power for electricity production, industrial chemistry, process heat and even combined cooling, heating and power. CSP technology is both responsive and reliable, and is best suited to countries with a high-degree of direct insolation (solar radiation).  As a low running cost technology, it would also benefit it would also benefit countries with developing economies. Developments in CSP within the tropics are leading to higher generation levels with lower installation and operating costs, as well as a more consistent power supply through the integration of advanced thermal energy storage systems. This book provides an integrated and comprehensive reference on CSP systems and technology, from the fundamental science to systems design and development to real-world applications.  Introductory chapters review the fundamentals of CSP energy conversion, siting criteria and methodology, and the socio-economic and environmental assessment of CSP systems and cover the main designs of CSP systems in detail. The second half reviews the development, optimization and applications of CSP components and materials and concludes by addressing the important topic of solar fuels and industrial solar chemistry.