Solar-coal hybrid power generation

Can solar energy be integrated into a coalfired thermal power plant?

This research aims to find a more viable integration mechanism of solar energy into a coal‐fired thermal power plant in terms of techno‐economic and ecology perspective. Performance of the 300 MW SCHPG system in the nominal and part‐load condition is analyzed under three different integration mechanisms.

What is a hybrid power plant?

Whichever mode is adopted, the design and integration of the solar field into the conventional system is critical for the proper functioning of a hybrid plant. In principle, this form of hybrid technology can be applied to any form of conventional thermal (coal-, gas-, oil- or biomass-fired) power plant, either existing or new build.

Could coal and solar power be combined?

The pairing of coal and solar energy may seem an unlikely combination, but under the appropriate circumstances, could offer an elegant solution to combining the reliability and cost-effectiveness of large-scale coal-fired generation with an emissions-free form of renewable energy.

Can solar power replace coal?

If solar power was used to replace a significant amount of coal fed to a power plant (operating in ‘coal saver’ mode), the overall amount could actually decrease, although this would not be the case with plants operating in ‘solar boost’ configuration.

What are the advantages of a solar-coal thermochemical hybrid power generation system?

A solar-coal thermochemical hybrid power generation system is proposed. Net power generation efficiency and exergy efficiency can reach 53.06 % and 52.24 %. The chemical energy of syngas increased by approximately 29.70 % to 851.57 MW. The exergy destruction of the fuel conversion process is decreased by about 10.36 %.

Can solar energy reduce coal consumption?

During daylight operation, solar energy can be used to reduce coal consumption (coal-reducing mode). As solar radiation decreases during the latter part of the day, the coal contribution can be increased, allowing the plant’s boiler to always operate at full load.