Conceptual Design of Sodium-Cooled Central Receiver Solar Power Plant

A conceptual design and performance and cost estimate for a liquid-sodium- cooled central receiver solar power plant have been completed. In this design, liquid sodium transfers thermal energy from the solar receiver to the steam Rankine cycle. The sodium leaves the receiver at a temperature of 593°C (1100°F) and is conducted to the base of the tower, where it is used to generate superheated steam, or, alternately, may be stored in insulated vessels for use in preventing transients during periods of cloud cover, or to extend the plant operating period. The steam drives a 16.55 MPa/538°C/538°C (2400 psi/1000°F/1000°F) reheat turbine which produces a net electrical output of 100 MW. At full power the receiver captures 89% of the solar power incident upon it; this power is then converted to electricity at a gross efficiency of 44.5%. The cost of the first plant is estimated to be $210 million in 1978 dollars; learning curve and -iass production effects could reduce the cost of the mature design to $164 million.