Developing guidelines for the yield analysis of solar thermal power plants - current status of the SolarPACES project guiSmo

Abstract

Yield analysis is a crucial task during project development of solar thermal power plants. At the moment, numerous system models and assessment methodology are used by the different stake holders. These models often lack validation, and no standard or benchmark for comparison yet exists for electricity yield analysis of CSP plants. This situation hinders the acceptance of CSP technology by potential investors and leads to unnecessary risk surcharges during financing. To solve this problem, an international working group is being initiated within SolarPACES Task I to define guidelines for electricity yield analysis of CSP plants. The guidelines being developed by this working group will cover all aspects relevant for a reliable yield analysis. This paper gives an update on current project achievements and an outlook on future activities.