Innovative Modular Approach to High Concentration CSP Systems. Results and Achievements From the First-of-its-Kind 300 kWt Semi-Fresnel Fixed Mirror Module Prototype Up and Running

Abstract

This paper presents the successes achieved during the construction, commissioning and testing of an innovative approach to stationary reflector/tracking absorber (SRTA) systems that demonstrate the viability of this kind of solar thermal solution. This novel approach is based on a Fresnel concept of a classical SRTA, which leads to cost reductions thanks to reducing the height reached by the solar field. In addition, it provides the SRTA systems with another extra layer of adaptability to different climatic, orographic and even economic situations. In order to demonstrate the feasibility of this solution, the MOSAIC project has constructed and commissioned a prototype based on this approach, surpassing challenges such as the flexible piping and showing new improvements that could be introduced in the future MOSAIC modules. The first tests have been conducted on this prototype demonstrating, still under suboptimal operational conditions, an efficiency of up to 18.6 % and the possibility to operate this system using molten salts for high output temperatures that could make the most of the 3D concentration. The modularity, versatility and adaptability demonstrated by this concept all along the project development lead to a wide portfolio of opportunities to integrate the MOSAIC concept in a variety of scenarios, free space availabilities, and different applications, while maintaining a reduced cost of energy production.