Estimation and identification of cost reduction potential avenues for large aperture parabolic trough solar collector

In this study, the cost reduction avenues for large aperture (9 m) parabolic trough solar collectors (PTSC) have been identified using an inventory of material approaches for the Indian context. The large aperture PTSC has been selected based on the coupled optical and thermal analysis. The mass of the various components of the proposed large aperture is identified by considering Euro Trough (ET) collector as reference. Based on the potential mass reduction of the various subsection of the solar field, the cost of the large aperture PTSC has been identified. The cost estimations of the large aperture PTSC are also used to estimate levelized cost of electricity (LCoE) considering both wet and dry cooling systems and examining scenarios with and without thermal energy storage (TES). Furthermore, the sensitivity of the various design parameters such as location, design point direct normal irradiance (DNI), solar multiple (SM) and TES has been studied for the wholesome exploration of the avenues. It has been identified that there is a cost reduction potential of up to 25% as compared to ET based CSP plants. It has been identified that the lowest LCoE is estimated as USD 0.105 per kWh, although the variation in the LCoE is enormous, going up to USD 0.327 per kWh for the considered parameters. The LCoE appears to be more sensitive for the SM than design point DNI and TES; the optimum value of the SM with and without TES of 6 h is calculated 2.4 and 1.2, respectively. Considering the outcomes of the cost reduction potential and followed LCoE estimation, there is a substantial opportunity to enhance the cost-effectiveness of large aperture PTSC systems.