Modelling study for compact Fresnel reflector power plant

This paper describes Compact Linear Fresnel Reflector (CLFR) concepts suita ble for large scale solar thermal electricity generation plants. In the CLF R, it is assumed that there will be many parallel receiver towers that are close enough for individual reflectors to have the option of directing refl ected solar radiation to two linear receivers on separate towers. This addi tional variable in reflector orientation provides the means for much more d ensely packed arrays. Patterns of alternating reflector orientation can be set up such that closely packed reflectors can be positioned so that shadin g and blocking are almost eliminated. The avoidance of large reflector spac ings and tower heights is an important cost issue in determining the cost o f ground preparation, array substructure cost ton er structure cost steam l ine thermal losses, and steam line cost. The improved ability to use the Fr esnel approach delivers the traditional benefits of such a system, namely s mall reflector size, low structural con, fixed receiver position without mo ving joints, and non-cylindrical receiver geometry. The modelled army also uses advanced all glass evacuated tubular absorbers with low emittance sele ctive coatings.