Are concentrated solar power plants killing birds?

Some media sources have reported that concentrated solar power plants have injured or killed large numbers of birds due to intense heat from the concentrated sunrays. Some of the claims may have been overstated or exaggerated.

How can I lower peak demand through solar PV & energy storage systems?

Goal: To lower peak demand through solar PV and energy storage systems across campus. Find the costs of proposed systems and determine benefits for ISU. Determine how the two systems can be integrated to maximize production. Compare the systems by calculating the yearly savings.

Can solar PV canopy systems be installed in parking areas?

The advancement of energy storage technology has opened more doors to the capabilities of production for these systems. This study shows expected outcomes of solar PV canopy systems located in parking areas throughout the Illinois State University’s (ISU) campus.

Can solar PV systems be installed on campus?

While there have been several studies conducted on solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on campus none have analyzed the implementation of energy storage. We conducted site analyses for a majority of the locations within campus for optimal placement of solar PV array systems.

How do solar power towers & parabolic troughs work?

Heat from the sun can be used to provide steam used to make heavy oil less viscous and easier to pump. This process is called solar thermal enhanced oil recovery. Solar power tower and parabolic troughs can be used to provide the steam which is used directly so no generators are required and no electricity is produced.

What is the conversion efficiency of a solar system?

is: with , , respectively the incoming solar flux and the fluxes absorbed and lost by the system solar receiver. The conversion efficiency is at most the Carnot efficiency, which is determined by the temperature of the receiver and the temperature of the heat rejection ("heat sink temperature") ,