Thermal energy storage for direct steam generation

Parabolic trough power plants with direct steam generation are a promising option for future cost reduction in comparison to the SEGS type technology. These new solar thermal power plants require innovative storage concepts, where the two-phase heat transfer fluid poses a major challenge. A three-part storage system is proposed where a phase change material (PCM) storage will be deployed for the two-phase evaporation, while concrete storage will be used for storing sensible heat, i.e. for preheating of water and superheating of steam. A storage system with a total storage capacity of approx. 1 MW h is described, combining a PCM module and a concrete module. The storage modules have been constructed for testing in a DSG-test facility specially erected at a conventional power plant of Endesa in Carboneras (Spain). Commissioning of the storage system started in May 2010; testing under real steam conditions around 100 bar will begin in August 2010.