A Detailed Techno-Economic Analysis of Gas Turbines Applied to CSP Power Plants With Central Receiver

Abstract

The present work presents a very detailed techno-economic analysis of the technology made up of two complementary models. A performance model implemented in Thermoflex environment is used to explore alternative integration layouts to enable the simultaneous operation on solar and fossil energy. Then, a detailed cost analysis approaches the capital and operation costs of the plant from an EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) standpoint. These two models are then combined in annual simulations to obtain the final Levelized Cost of Electricity from which a solid conclusion about the true potential of solar gas turbines can be ascertained. A sensitivity analysis with respect to the main boundary conditions is also provided.