BrightSource says that power tower systems are actually easier to implement than parabolic trough systems. Why is this?
First, tower technology has surpassed solar plant topographic limitations: trough systems require extremely flat terrain with grades limited to Second, tower technology does not face as many barriers in terms of field equipment. There are fewer manufacturers of curved glass appropriate for trough mirrors than manufacturers of simple flat glass mirrors. Furthermore, there are, at present, only two manufacturers of the specialized heat-collecting pipes used in parabolic trough systems. Third, the potential adverse environmental impacts of trough systems often require more intensive environmental scrutiny and longer permitting processes.
Related Questions
- BrightSource says that power tower systems are actually easier to implement than parabolic trough systems. Why is this?
- How does a solar power tower system work and how is it different from parabolic trough systems?
- Why were no parabolic trough power plants built in the United States between 1990 and 2005?
