A previously developed control scheme for thermal energy storage systems was coded and integrated into a previously developed annual performance model of Shams I to evaluate the consequences of incorporating a 2 GWhth capacity thermal energy storage system into the operation of the 100 MWe concentrated solar power plant. The existing solar field of Shams I was doubled in size to accommodate the proposed thermal energy storage system augmentation resulting in 157 GWhth of extra heat sent directly to the power block as well as 564 GWhth of residual heat sent to the thermal energy storage system for later use. Gross power generation was increased from 337 to 671 GWhe. The overall outcome of integrating the proposed thermal energy storage system into Shams I and applying its developed control scheme is increased and more streamlined supply of electricity in addition to reduced idle time. Despite integrating a 2 GWhth capacity thermal energy storage system into the operation of Shams I, model results showed that a non-stop 24-hour operation running at full load was difficult to achieve. In order to attain a non-stop operation, the size of the thermal energy storage must be increased or night time generation should be decreased.
Design analysis of a particle-based thermal energy storage system for concentrating solar power or grid energy storage
