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Overview of the Enablers and Barriers for a Wider Deployment of CSP Tower Technology in Europe

Author

Listed:
  • Fabio Maria Aprà

    (R2M Solution Spain S.L., 28032 Madrid, Spain)

  • Sander Smit

    (R2M Solution Spain S.L., 28032 Madrid, Spain)

  • Raymond Sterling

    (R2M Solution Spain S.L., 28032 Madrid, Spain)

  • Tatiana Loureiro

    (R2M Solution Spain S.L., 28032 Madrid, Spain)

Abstract

For years, concentrated solar power (CSP) has been considered an emerging technology that could disrupt the energy production sector. The possibility to store the electricity generated during the sunny operating hours in the form of heat enhances energy dispatchability and gives CSP a unique value proposition that conventional renewable energies cannot provide cost-efficiently since it requires the integration of costly large-scale battery systems. CSP is a cleaner technology compared to photovoltaics, but photovoltaics currently has lower overall capital costs, making it more attractive to investors and stakeholders who want to spend less money upfront. This is one of the main reasons why CSP has never really led either the electricity market or the heating one, even if its combined generation capability (heat and electricity) is globally recognized as a great advantage for a renewable technology. In this study, we analyze the reasons why CSP is not as widespread as it could be; at the same time, we look at the opportunities and the enablers for a further deployment of this technology, focusing on the European region.

Suggested Citation

  • Fabio Maria Aprà & Sander Smit & Raymond Sterling & Tatiana Loureiro, 2021. "Overview of the Enablers and Barriers for a Wider Deployment of CSP Tower Technology in Europe," Clean Technol., MDPI, vol. 3(2), pages 1-18, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jcltec:v:3:y:2021:i:2:p:21-394:d:540670
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    References listed on IDEAS

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