Comparative Techno-Economic Analysis of Different Parabolic Trough CSP Plants for the Italian Market

Abstract

The objective of this study is to present updated estimates of the cost of concentrated solar power (CSP) projects that are relevant for the current Italian market. To this end, a comparative techno-economic analysis of different CSP plant types based on parabolic trough (PT) collectors was conducted, considering various scenarios with respect to heat transfer fluids, location and storage size. The scenarios were defined in accordance with a number of requirements, including the utilization of technologies produced in Europe (in alignment with the EU's Net-Zero Industry Act), the availability of performance and cost data from existing literature, and/or the authors' own experience, as well as the eligibility for incentives according to the initial drafts of the new support measure. The analysis employed two distinct modelling tools, developed by ENEA and DLR, respectively. These offered varying levels of detail in the description of the plant behavior. Thus, cross-checking of the results was enabled. Additionally, insights were gained concerning the impact of the chosen modelling approach on performance assessment.