The energy crisis in 1973 and 1979 initiated a great number of activities and programs for low and high temperature applica tion of solar energy. Synthetic fuels and chemicals produced by solar energy is one of them, where temperatures in the range of 600-1000°C or even higher are needed. In principle such high temperatures can be produced in solar towers. For electricity production, the feasibility and operation of solar tower plants has been examined during the SSPS - project (Small Solar Power System) in Almeria, Spain. The objective of Solar Thermal Energy Utilization is to extend the experience from the former SSPS - program in to the field of solar produced synthetic fuels. New materials and technolo gies have to be developed in order to research this goal. Metallic components now in use for solar receivers need to be improved with respect to transient operation or possibly replaced by ceramics. High temperature processes, like steam-methane reforming, coal conversion and hydrogen produc tion need to be developed or at least adapted for the unconven tional solar operation. Therefore Solar Thermal Energy Utiliza tion is a long term program, which needs time for its develop ment much more time than the intervals expected in between further energy crisis. The "Studies on Technology and Applica tion on Solar Energy Utilization" is a necessary step in the right direction in order to prepare for the energy problems in the future.

Design of Solar Thermal Power Plants introduces the basic design methods of solar thermal power plants for technicians engaged in solar thermal power generation engineering. This book includes the author's theoretical investigation and study findings in solar heat concentrators, a performance evaluation of solar thermal collectors, a numerical simulation of the heat transfer process between complex geometrics, heat transfer through radiation, and more. Containing theoretical descriptions of solar concentrators and receivers, practical engineering examples, and detailed descriptions of site selections for solar thermal power plants, this book has a strong theoretical and practical value for readers. - Contains practical guidance and applications, making it more useful and user-friendly for CSP engineers - Includes theoretical investigation in solar heat concentrators, performance evaluation of solar thermal collectors, and the numerical simulation of heat transfer between complex geometrics with practical applications

Technologies for Solar Thermal Energy: Theory, Design and Optimization presents concepts surrounding industrial process heat and thermal power generation, including detailed theory and practical considerations for design, performance analysis, and economic assessments. Addressing the significance of power generation from solar thermal energy, the book covers the different power cycles for solar thermal power plant and comparison analysis, along with the advantages of solar thermal power systems compared with photovoltaic systems, corresponding energy storage technology, working materials, and the design method of a solar thermal power plant. This book is most valuable for lecturers, postgraduate and undergraduate students who will benefit from technological advances. In addition, researchers and engineers can use this book for modern theories and design aspects to enhance knowledge and conduct research in the field of solar thermal energy. - Includes reference case studies that illustrate worldwide installations - Provides detailed coverage of the design of solar thermal energy storage and thermal collectors for power plants - Covers a complete economic assessment of solar thermal energy through a life cycle and feasibility analysis

Comprehensive Energy Systems, Seven Volume Set provides a unified source of information covering the entire spectrum of energy, one of the most significant issues humanity has to face. This comprehensive book describes traditional and novel energy systems, from single generation to multi-generation, also covering theory and applications. In addition, it also presents high-level coverage on energy policies, strategies, environmental impacts and sustainable development. No other published work covers such breadth of topics in similar depth. High-level sections include Energy Fundamentals, Energy Materials, Energy Production, Energy Conversion, and Energy Management. Offers the most comprehensive resource available on the topic of energy systems Presents an authoritative resource authored and edited by leading experts in the field Consolidates information currently scattered in publications from different research fields (engineering as well as physics, chemistry, environmental sciences and economics), thus ensuring a common standard and language