Capacity configuration of hybrid CSP/PV plant for economical application of solar energy

Abstract

Concentrating solar power (CSP) technology has received increasing attention in recent years because of its distinct advantage for dispatchable power generation from solar energy. However, owing to its highly levelized costs of electricity, CSP plants are less competitive than photovoltaic (PV) power plants. To overcome this drawback and suppress PV power fluctuations, the concept of a hybrid CSP/PV power plant is proposed and developed. A capacity configuration method based on filtering and checking is proposed to seek a relationship between the capacity configuration of a hybrid CSP/PV system and the cost of solar energy. Co-content hybrid systems with different ratios of CSP capacity and PV capacity are modeled, and their comprehensive performance is investigated. Simulations and comparisons with a standalone CSP system focused on annual energy generation, capacity factor, levelized cost of electricity, and possibility for loss of power supply show that the hybrid CSP/PV systems possess different features depending on their capacity configurations. The results indicate that the proposed method can supply a convenient and simple operation pattern that favors engineering utilization and extension.