Parabolic trough solar thermal power plant: Potential, and projects development in Algeria

Against the background of an increasing energy demand and growing environmental problems in Algeria due to the use of fossil fuels, renewable energy resources offer interesting opportunities for Algeria. In 2011, Algeria has developed a national program for the period 2011-2030 to promote concrete actions in the fields of renewable energies and energy efficiency. This paper gives description and working principles of the parabolic trough power plants, besides a review of considerations on the assessments for concentrating solar power potential of Algeria. The analysis shows the competitive viability of CSP plants. Algeria has the key prerequisites to make an economical CSP power generation; including high-quality insolation and appropriate land in addition to water availability and extensive transmission and power grid. In the end, an overview is given on the parabolic trough power plant projects development in Algeria including the first integrated solar combined cycle Hassi R'mel plant, in addition to the three further hybrid power plants that will be completed by 2018. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.