Session: 08-02: Technoeconomic Analysis of CSP and Thermal Energy Storage Systems

Paper Number: 156769

156769 - Feasibility Analysis of Implementing Small-Scale Csp System for Industrial Process Heat on Urban Brownfields 

Abstract: 

The solar industry has long been dominated by photovoltaic (PV) technologies, with significantly less emphasis placed on the potential of concentrated solar power (CSP). While CSP technology is capable of producing dispatchable electricity through thermal energy storage, it also offers a promising solution for meeting industrial process heat (IPH) demands. IPH is a substantial energy consumer, accounting for nearly 10% of U.S. emissions and 20% of global energy use. However, large-scale CSP projects face challenges in terms of high capital investment, land, and infrastructure requirements, making small-scale modular CSP (≤5 MW per project) a viable alternative. These smaller deployments require lower initial investments and can be sited closer to end-use facilities, reducing transmission costs and better aligning with the spatial needs of industrial energy users. A 100-MW plant requires more than $1 billion to build, while modular CSP within $200 million offers less risk, higher acceptance, and standardization. Recent research has shown that manufacturing equipment specifically for small-scale CSP can make this cost-effective and overcome the utility-scale requirement, particularly when combined with TES.

This study explores the potential of using small-scale CSP installations on urban brownfield sites as a strategic solution for industrial process heat applications. Brownfields, often remnants of former industrial sites contaminated with hazardous waste, are typically vacant for extended periods due to lengthy remediation requirements. However, these sites are generally co-located with industrial areas, offering a prime opportunity to repurpose them for providing heat to several industries without extensive mitigation. With lower land costs and proximity to industrial users, brownfields are economically advantageous for small-scale CSP, while contributing to local economic revitalization and emission reductions. In this work, we present a techno-economic feasibility analysis of deploying small-scale CSP for industrial process heat in urban brownfields in the Houston area. Using a geographic information system (GIS) to map potential brownfield sites, solar resource, and target industries, we identify optimal locations for CSP installations. A comprehensive analysis is conducted using the System Advisor Model, where heliostat costs and brownfield land expenses are critical parameters. We conduct parametric analysis to determine the optimal design parameters, including but not limited to the solar field size (solar multiple), thermal storage, and operating temperatures. Our findings demonstrate that small-scale CSP on brownfields can reduce emissions from existing industrial activities, stimulate local economic growth, and prevent the spread of more polluting industries.

Keywords: Concentrated solar power, urban brownfields, industrial process heat, small-scale, geographic information system.

Presenting Author: Laura Schaefer Rice University

Presenting Author Biography: Laura Schaefer