Annual performance prediction of a hybrid brayton thermosolar plant

Abstract

We present a thermodynamic model for the prediction of the performance records of a solar hybrid gas turbine power plant, with the aim to deliver to the grid an steady power output. The overall thermal efficiency depends on the efficiencies of the involved subsystems and the required heat exchangers in a straightforward analytical way. Numerical values for input parameters are taken from a central tower heliostat field recently developed near Seville, Spain. Real curves for irradiance and external temperature are taken. The values of several variables in yearly terms are predicted and the fuel consumption assuming natural gas is estimated, as well as greenhouse emissions. Moreover, we present an analysis of the losses coming from each plant subsystem. This kind of analysis can contribute to improve the design of these facilities in order to get better performance.