Comparative LCA of Two Thermal Energy Storage Systems for Shams1 Concentrated Solar Power Plant: Molten Salt vs. Concrete

Abstract

Thermal energy storage (TES) for concentrated solar power (CSP) is gaining popularity because it has the potential to increase the hours of electricity production from the CSP technology.In this Study, we conducted a comparative life cycle assessment (LCA) of two TES technologies (concrete and molten salt) for Shams-1 CSP plant in United Arab Emirates.Eco-Indicator 99 was employed to model the environmental impact per 800MWhe produced.Results obtained show that concrete TES has a greater environmental impact than molten salt TES, with fossil fuel being the largest impact contributor in both cases.A sensitivity analysis in which different scenarios were considered showed a reduction in environmental impact when waste recycling and transportation changes are incorporated.Based on the results obtained, incorporating molten salt TES in Shams 1 will have a lower environmental impact than the use of concrete TES.