Analysis of hybrid CPV retrofit on parabolic trough powerplants with storage

Abstract

Retrofitting an existing parabolic trough plant with a bolt-on PV apparatus is an economical way to increase the yield of a plant. The annual generation is increased by 34% for the plant modeled but there is decrease in the amount of stored thermal energy. The retrofit has a detrimental effect on the generation in the late afternoon when the plant has thermal energy storage, but is the least expensive way to achieve increased generation at a plant.