Concentrated Solar Thermal (CST) technology harnesses solar energy to generate heat or electricity by using solar collectors. The process is conceptually straightforward but can be challenging to execute effectively. It involves large mirrors or lenses that concentrate sunlight onto a specific area called the receiver.
These mirrors are known as solar collectors, and they come in various designs and focusing techniques, including dish systems, solar power towers, and parabolic troughs.
In this technology, a receiver is placed at the focal point of the solar collector. The receiver’s role is to absorb the concentrated sunlight and convert it into heat. It typically contains heat-transfer fluids like molten salt or high-temperature oil to capture and store the thermal energy.
