I mentioned before how, by using molten salt as a heat collecting medium, concentrating solar power plants can achieve higher temperatures and continue to produce electricity after dark. Now, the first facility with that capability is being built.
The Archimede Solar Thermal Power Plant is being built in Italy, at a cost of 60 million Euros. It will put out only five megawatts of power (as much as three and a half large wind turbines), but hopefully it will serve as a proof of concept for more ambitious facilities.
Author: Milan
In the spring of 2005, I graduated from the University of British Columbia with a degree in International Relations and a general focus in the area of environmental politics. In the fall of 2005, I began reading for an M.Phil in IR at Wadham College, Oxford.
Outside school, I am very interested in photography, writing, and the outdoors. I am writing this blog to keep in touch with friends and family around the world, provide a more personal view of graduate student life in Oxford, and pass on some lessons I've learned here.
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60 million Euros for 5MW of output seems extremely expensive. Is the plant able to put out 5MW at all times of day and night, at least?