An interesting move to increase solar integration is underway in North Africa and the Middle East, where a number of CSP and gas-fired combined cycle hybrids are under development. Integrated Solar Combined Cycle technology aims to draw the environmental benefits of solar energy together with the operational advantages of a ‘conventional’ gas turbine-steam turbine combined cycle plant. While the solar resource partially substitutes fossil fuels, the installation can also supply energy to the gird whenever it is required. In addition, by taking advantage of the existing infrastructure associated with the development of a conventional thermal power plant- including but not limited to site access, power transmission links and a steam turbine power island- the economics of the concentrating solar thermal component are likely to be significantly enhanced. To read the rest of this interesting story, please click the link below.

Original Story by David Appleyard
Published Date: May 28, 2010
http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2010/05/integrating-solar-gas-turbines