The Solar Tower Jülich – First Operational Experiences and Test Results

Kurzfassung

Since March 2009 the Solar Tower Jülich is in solar operation. During the last 18 month various operation experiences in different operation modes (gas fired, hybrid & solar only) could be gained. The performance of the main components and of the whole solar power plant were tested. The operation and control of the solar power plant is well performing. All the main components with the exception of the heliostat field are performing as expected or better. In particular the interaction between the main components, the hot- and warm-air-systems and the water-steam-cycle is well functioning. The functionality of the solar power plant concept with an open volumetric receiver could be demonstrated. The necessary technical expertise for the further development of the technology could be gained and the next plant generation for a location in north Africa is currently under design.