Development of the Prototype IP-Solar: A Web-based Monitoring and Diagnostics Tool for Solar Thermal Systems

Large solar thermal systems (LSTS) are a promising market segment for solar energy. However, the realization of LSTS is more challenging compared to smaller plants, in both technical and economical terms. Permanent monitoring, data evaluation and fault detection during the operation of LSTS has shown by Fink et al. [3], and Peuser et al. [13] to be crucial for ensuring optimal performance. The only cost-effective way for permanent surveillance of LSTS operation is to make use of a computer-aided tool that performs as many steps as possible in an automated mode. The R&D project ‘IP-Solar’ developed the scientific basis and the technical fundamentals for such a system. This paper presents the current state of development emphasizing the methodology of the operation diagnostics. In particular, the algorithm-based approach, its implementation and testing are described in detail.