The Prospects for Solar-Powered Closed-Cycle Gas Turbines

This paper presents the results of a systems study to evaluate the technological and economic feasibility of utilizing closed-cycle gas turbines integrated with an advanced-design central receiver for solar power generation. Applicable turbomachinery technologies were reviewed to estimate their future advances expected. System design-point performance, component size, and cost characteristics of closed-cycle air turbines were estimated, and system operational and control characteristics, including off-design and part-load performance characteristics, are discussed. Critical system components were reviewed to estimate the appropriate testing and development time and cost schedules required.