Small Solar Trough Power Plant in Thailand

Abstract

This article introduces a solar trough technology, that was first installed in Thailand. Parabolic trough solar systems become quite popular in recent times as they seem to be a very economical solution for future electrical power needs. The economical efforts can be reached at adequate climate conditions by means of medium to high direct solar radiation and partly cloudy on particular sites. The station in Koachan, Chonburi province has a capacity of 100 kW thermal with an aperture area of 205 m². A direct steam producing receiver sends steam to a 10 kW electric steam screw. The solar radiation and the operation performance of this German technology were measured and surveyed during a full year. The results show that this technology can be an appropriate solution for the energy problems in the rural areas of South East Asia where solar conditions permit. The average values show 5 kWh/m² even under tropical conditions. The investment cost may reach a level in future below 100,000 THB per kW. Some technological adaptations and may be developments still have to be reached to optimize this solution for the local needs.