Which is the best solar thermal collection technology for electricity generation in north-west India? Evaluation of options using the analytical hierarchy process

J.D. Nixon, P.K. Dey, P.A. Davies

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study of concentrating solar thermal power generation sets out to evaluate the main existing collection technologies using the framework of the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). It encompasses parabolic troughs, heliostat fields, linear Fresnel reflectors, parabolic dishes, compound parabolic concentrators and linear Fresnel lenses. These technologies are compared based on technical, economic and environmental criteria. Within these three categories, numerous sub-criteria are identified; similarly sub-alternatives are considered for each technology. A literature review, thermodynamic calculations and an expert workshop have been used to arrive at quantitative and qualitative assessments. The methodology is applied principally to a case study in Gujarat in north-west India, though case studies based on the Sahara Desert, Southern Spain and California are included for comparison. A sensitivity analysis is carried out for Gujarat. The study concludes that the linear Fresnel lens with a secondary compound parabolic collector, or the parabolic dish reflector, is the preferred technology for north-west India.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)5230-5240
Number of pages11
JournalEnergy
Volume35
Issue number12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2010

Bibliographical note

NOTICE: this is the author’s version of a work that was accepted for publication in Energy. Changes resulting from the publishing process, such as peer review, editing, corrections, structural formatting, and other quality control mechanisms may not be reflected in this document. Changes may have been made to this work since it was submitted for publication. A definitive version was subsequently published in Nixon, JD, Dey, PK & Davies, PA, 'Which is the best solar thermal collection technology for electricity generation in north-west India? Evaluation of options using the analytical hierarchy process' Energy, vol 35, no. 12, (2010) DOI http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2010.07.042

Keywords

  • solar thermal collectors
  • CSP
  • multi-criteria decision making
  • AHP

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