CSP: Bringing Solar to the Masses

And not one knows of the simple Direct Steam Generation process about to hit depicted at powersmithgroup.com

robtemery-

I think they all know about direct stream generation ... they all talk about it privately because it seems so cheap and the power loses are much lower ... reality is another story though. It's not like rocket science. If someone isn't doing the obvious there are generally good reasons why. In this case there are all kinds of pressure issues with having those kinds of pressures spread throughout an entire array of pipes with all their fittings. It's not a simple problem. Much much easier (ie - less costly and more immediately available) engineering-wise to heat a low-expansive fluid and use it to generate steam in a small contained area.

My guess is that direct stream generation will become widespread once they work the kinks out ... but even powersmithgroup hasn't done that. Though you can be sure they aren't the only ones working on it. As I understand it Ausra and some others are pretty actively working on it ... but like I said, you can't roll it out before it's ready.

Very difficult to hear a couple of the contributors, due to the background noise. Would it be possible for Stephen to write up a short summary of the points they made? Thanks!

Every one is aware that PV panel prices are south diving and approaching to US 75 cents / watt for a fully loaded module. Taking in to consideration BOS, civil works utilizing indigenous resources for engineering skill in installations and financing cost the installed cost may work out to US $ 2 / watt.
If this is true the investment cost of Rs.80 to 100 Million will give 2.5 Million units in a year in solar zone in India.

I will welcome if any one suggest and confirm that CSP shall follow the price trend seen in PV so that CSP become affordable in India for a viable investment decision ?.


GOPAL LAL SOMANI
91 9414113199

The author writes: "But the only technology that can deliver large amounts of electricity, heat and hot water at one time is concentrating solar power."

Presumably he meant to include only renewable tech in this sweeping statement, but even then one could argue that geothermal power has better potential and much higher current capacity.
Steven

Very interesting topic but it is very hard to understand some of the speakers. A written summary would be greatly appreciated.

Gopal -- I don't think you will see the same price trend in CSP. You are talking about a much different scale of construction, a much longer permitting process and a much wider scope of materials. Therefore, you simply aren't seeing the PV and CSP spaces mirror one another.

To Steven: Yes, I am talking about renewables only. And you are correct, geothermal could arguably rival (or beat out) CSP in those areas. We certainly have far more geothermal capacity online today.