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Modeling of a solar thermal power generation plant for the coastal zones through the TRNSYS program

Abstract:

Increasing the generation of renewable energies to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels that produce high concentration of greenhouse gases is the priority that several governments have set for themselves in the medium term. In this paper, the modeling of a solar thermal energy generation plant is carried out. The climatic data correspond to two coastal cities and an island in Ecuador. The main contribution is the simulation of a complete model of solar collector fields and power conversion systems, in which the variables of output temperature and oil flow intervene at the same time. Previous research uses only the outlet temperature to evaluate the power plants. The model of the solar thermal plant is composed of a solar collector field, a storage tank, and an energy conversion system. As a result, a model of a solar thermal plant is obtained that allows to make decisions when considering the incorporation of microgrids in electrical systems isolated. The use of solar thermal technology allows to reduce the risk of spills from the transport of fossil fuels on ships. In addition, the CO2 emissions involved in the construction, operation, and maintenance of a solar thermal power plant are detailed.