Assessment of solar options for small power systems applications. Volume IV. Comparative ranking of concepts

A comparative analysis of solar thermal conversion concepts that are potentially suitable for development as small electric power systems (1 to 10 MWe) is presented. Cogeneration and total energy systems were beyond the scope of this study. Seven generic type of collectors, together with associated subsystems for electric power generation, were considered. The collectors can be classified into three categories: (1) two-axis tracking (with compound-curvature reflecting surfaces); (2) one-axis tracking (with single-curvature reflecting surfaces; and (3) nontracking (with low-concentration reflecting surfaces). All seven collectors were analyzed in conceptual system configurations with Rankine-cycle engines. In addition, two of the collectors (the Point Focus Central Receiver and the Point Focus Distributed Receiver) were analyzed with Brayton-cycle engines, and the latter of the two also was analyzed with Stirling-cycle engines. With these engine options, 10 systems were formulated for analysis. This is the fourth volume of a five-volume report on the work performed to analyze the alternative concepts, and the results obtained. Included in this volume are descriptions of the methodology used with, and concept ranks obtained from, potential users and R and D fund allocators