Abstract
Research is currently under way on a solar energy collector concept for electric power generation. The proposed collector consist of an array of several square kilometers of two-axis steered flat mirrors, the heliostats, that reflect solar energy onto a receiver atop a high tower near the center of the configuration. Various technology problems and application aspects are discussed, with emphasis on a particular model which includes power generation and energy storage. Some estimates of mass production capital cost are given; however, results on final plant and operating costs are not yet available. An abbreviated outline of the factors motivating the concept is given. With a device as the end product, the interdisciplinary aspects of the program have been readily managed, and a team effort by University and Industry has resulted in a rapidly developing project.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.