Solar Steam Generator: The 354 MW SEGS projectThe Solar Energy Generating Systems (SEGS) is a series of nine connected solar steam generator power plants. These were constructed between 1984 and 1991 and have been providing clean and relatively maintenance free energy since then. The technology behind these types of solar power generators is fairly straightforward. As shown below, large parabolic mirrors concentrate the sunlight onto the surface of a black tube carrying a synthetic oil.
The reflectors are motorized to follow the movement of the sun thus maximizing efficiency. The oil in the tubes can reach as high a temperature as 390 degrees celsius. This oil then transfers the heat to water. The steam generated by this process is used to power a steam turbine in the same way as a regular power plant. Cloudy periods and other irregularities are compensated by the presence of natural gas fired burners to maintain a steady steam flow to the turbines. Approximately 25% of the power generated by this plant is from Natural Gas.
The combined power stations use over one million mirrors and cover an area of approximately 6.4 square kilometres. Return from Solar Steam Generator: SEGS to Big Projects OR return to the Green Planet home page for more Solar Power Facts.
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