Economic Study of Solar Thermal Plant based on Gas Turbines

Abstract

The goal of this thesis is to carry out an economic analysis of solar thermal plant based on gas turbines. Throughout the project , there is a brief overview of different technologies used today in CSP without going into greater depth in most of them, but emphasizing solar tower technology with solar hybrid gas turbines. Having explained the reason why this technology has been chosen, possible configurations currently found in the solar panorama will be considered. Then, with the help of a thermodynamic software, called IPSE, all necessary data will be extracted for further economic evaluation. All configurations tested are hybrid using a fuel support based on Brayton cycle. Before carrying out the economic analysis, it will attempt to optimize the electrical efficiency and see how it affects to the levelized cost of electricity. Finally, all the configurations studied will be compared considering economic and energetic aspects.