Aurinkolämpökentät

Aurinkolämpökentät, also known as solar thermal fields or solar thermal power plants, are installations designed to generate heat from sunlight, which is then often used to produce electricity. These facilities typically consist of a large array of solar collectors that concentrate sunlight onto a receiver. The concentrated solar energy heats a fluid, such as oil or molten salt, to very high temperatures. This heated fluid is then used to produce steam, which drives a turbine connected to a generator, thereby producing electricity.

There are several types of technologies used in aurinkolämpökentät. Parabolic trough systems, which use curved mirrors to focus sunlight, are one common type. Another is solar power tower systems, where numerous mirrors (heliostats) track the sun and reflect its rays onto a central receiver atop a tall tower. Dish Stirling systems use a parabolic dish to concentrate sunlight onto a receiver connected to a Stirling engine, which converts heat directly into mechanical energy.

The primary advantage of aurinkolämpökentät is their ability to generate electricity from a renewable source. They also have the potential for thermal energy storage, allowing them to continue producing power even when the sun is not shining. However, these plants require significant land area and are most effective in regions with high solar irradiance. The initial investment costs can also be substantial, though operating costs are generally low. Aurinkolämpökentät play a role in diversifying energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.