ANNOUNCEMENTS
Solar thermal is a technologically mature, yet largely untapped, clean sustainable and renewable energy source. In the context of increasing emission gap and production gap, this study attempts to put a spotlight on solar thermal technologies. While the cumulative global installed capacity of solar PV is 100 times more than that of solar thermal, an existing solar thermal plant is compared with an existing solar PV plant under similar conditions and parameters to practically compare their efficiencies and benefits one each other. Fate of solar PV panels post intended-operation lifespan, early replacement of panels and their recyclability is discussed.
Challenges and opportunities in deploying solar thermal technologies to cater to heat and electricity requirements are studied. Further, different solar thermal technologies are discussed based on their characteristics and possibility for intervention in existing energy practices are explored, considering examples from appropriate operational solar thermal plants. Thermal storage and its role in achieving round-the-clock renewable energy availability is touched upon.
In an attempt to address the achievement of net zero targets by renewables, gaps in the path to decarbonized energy sector, left uncatered by the existing renewable energy solutions are identified. Possibility for addressal of such gaps by solar thermal and thermal energy storage is investigated.
In the face of electrification of energy sector, the drawbacks of doing so are identified and possible alternatives are brought to perspective.
The study through its findings and analysis, tries to push acceleration of sustainable energy solutions, that are less polluting, and better enable the achievement of Net Zero targets.
Keywords: Solar Thermal, Emission and Production Gaps, Net Zero, Thermal Energy Storage, Industrial Heat Demand.
