Performance Evaluation and Site Optimization of A 5 MW Parabolic Dish CSP Plant
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The present research investigates the design and performance capabilities of a recently developed 500 m² parabolic dish solar concentrator (PDSC), designed for clean energy production and industrial thermal applications. The research demonstrates significant progress in system architecture, optical-thermal efficiency, and component integration, grounded in both empirical data and simulation results. The proposed system employs high-reflectivity glass mirrors, a dual-axis solar tracking mechanism, and a conical cavity receiver to concentrate sunlight for effective thermal conversion. A structured, multi-criteria site selection framework outlined through a flowchart guides the evaluation process from national energy assessment to simulation of a 5 MW CSP plant for optimal location identification. A comparative analysis between two potential sites in Vadodara and Patan, Gujarat, investigates site-specific performance and identifies the optimal location for maximizing solar thermal energy yield, with validation carried out at a 5 MW CSP facility in both regions. Simulation tools, including MATLAB and SAM, were utilized to evaluate system performance under diverse solar and environmental circumstances. The findings indicate consistent energy production during peak periods and thermal energy output, facilitating industrial operations. The annual conversion efficiency varies from 25% to 30%. In contrast to traditional fossil-fuel-based thermal power plants, the PDSC system provides a cleaner and more sustainable option with significantly diminished carbon emissions. Despite ongoing economic and operational constraints, the findings emphasize the significant potential of large-scale PDSC systems in sustainable energy production, especially in areas with high solar irradiation.
DOI: 10.14419/qjccbx92
Authors: Maulik Patel, Dr. Sanjay. R. Vyas
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4414374156
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