Tailoring HYSOL: Solar Energy Contribution to Reach Full Dispatchability and Firmness in Target Markets

摘要

Renewable energies for electricity generation are traditionally considered a risk for the electricity system due to their lack of dispatchability and firmness. Renewable energies penetration is constrained to strong grids or else its production must be limited to ensure grid stability, which is kept by the usage of hydropower energy or fossil-fueled power plants. CSP technology has an opportunity to arise not only as a dispatchable and firm technology, but also as an alternative that improves grid stability. To achieve that objective, solar hybrid configurations are being developed, HYSOL being the most recent solution. Three reference scenarios have been defined: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Northern Chile (CHL) and Baja California in Mexico (MEX), considering their respective weather conditions and market demand profile. These scenarios have been modelled, simulated and evaluated in terms of dispatchability and firmness defined by the authors. The results show that HYSOL technology has potential to become a reference in providing firm and renewable power, although a detailed design and control system are required.