Power generation on a large scale
Using parabolic collector technology, solar power can be produced in capacities of between ten up to over 200 MW. The modular character of a solar field makes any initial capacity possible. From a commercial point of view, the larger, the better. Through the establishment of mass production for mirrors and absorbers and the further development of heat storage methods, parabolic collector power plants will in future be economically comparable with conventional power plants in medium-load operation. With its decades of experience in the international construction of large-scale plants, Ferrostaal develops profitable projects with a focus on large-scale thermal power plants.

• Concentrated solar power (CSP) is a viable sustainable technology playing a significant role in the future’s energy mix:

  • CSP ensures full dispatch ability
  • CSP offers high unexploited cost reduction potential
  • CSP concepts can be optimised for serving peak-load demand
  • CSP allows hybridization with thermal power plants for 24/7 power production
  • CSP contributes to grid stability through its supplied power quality

Power around the clock
Solar thermal power is the only renewable energy that is both easy to predict and allows economical storage. Unlike other technologies, the energy can be stored very cost-effectively as heat, not as electricity. Large tanks are heated during sunshine hours and release their energy during cloudy periods or at night. This way, solar thermal power plants provide constant, reliable energy when it is needed, decoupling supply and demand. Storage systems can even be optimised to especially cover peak-load hours, stabilising the grids when demands are highest – irrespective of the sun.

Benefiting from its experience in the petrochemical industry, Ferrostaal installed a storage system for 7.5h of full-load operation at its Andasol 3 plant. Together with our partners, we are improving concepts for storage of both steam and high-temperature molten salt. Having successfully installed several combined cycle power plants, Ferrostaal is also optimising hybrid systems in which a solar field is integrated into an existing power plant. This promises high plant capacity factors, because the turbine can be fed both from the sun and from another source.