Benefits of co locating concentrating solar power and wind

Why is co-locating wind and solar a good idea?

By co-locating wind and solar, the power supply becomes firmer, as the two energy sources are complementary in many markets – that is, the sun shines when the wind doesn’t blow, and vice versa.

What is co-locating wind and solar power?

Co-locating wind and solar capacity means that the two generators can share a grid connection, land, substation and power electronics, as well as permitting procedures and even some operations and maintenance work. All the while, the two energy sources maximize the capacity factor of the grid connection.

Can co-locating wind and solar reduce grid capacity?

He explains that by co-locating wind and solar, one can reduce the grid capacity, because the power is more likely to be produced where it is needed. Today, power still needs to be distributed from windswept coastal lines further inland, for example.

How does co-location affect wind and solar power?

Beyond the economics, co-location offers more stable, predictable and dispatchable power output. Both wind and solar are naturally subject to cloud cover or gust changes, which alternates the power output. If the two work in tandem, they level out the effect to a certain degree.

How do wind and solar work together?

Both wind and solar are naturally subject to cloud cover or gust changes, which alternates the power output. If the two work in tandem, they level out the effect to a certain degree. He explains that by co-locating wind and solar, one can reduce the grid capacity, because the power is more likely to be produced where it is needed.

How can wind and solar power improve supply-demand?

On the generation side, maximizing the complementarity of wind and solar power, and utilizing both long-duration (e.g., hydrogen and pumped storage) and short-duration energy storage (e.g., electrochemical battery) can reduce fluctuations and ensure a balanced supply-demand.