The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) has engaged in a supplemental research project examining the experiences and lessons learned at the state-of-the-art Archimede concentrating solar power (CSP) plant. Enel developed Archimede with the goal of demonstrating, on an industrial scale, parabolic trough collectors operating with molten salt working fluid and direct thermal energy storage (TES) integrated into a combined cycle plant using high-temperature steam. To expand on the knowledge gained from this project, project members expressed interest in learning about experiences at other existing CSP-hybrid plants where CSP technology has been combined with conventional power generation technology, allowing fossil fuel-fired plants to operate more cleanly and efficiently, while improving the dispatchability and value of solar power.
Worldwide, fourteen CSP-hybrid projects representing a combined total of 210 MW of solar capacity have been commissioned. Six more, with an additional 136 MW of design capacity, are in various stages of implementation and are slated to come online over the next few years. This report presents an update on five CSP-hybrid projects previously highlighted by EPRI, seven new operational projects, and three hybrid projects currently being implemented (design/construction phase). It does not cover the numerous CSP-hybrid projects in development.