South Africa has launched a groundbreaking energy project: a solar tower using molten salt technology. This innovative way of storing energy allows electricity to be supplied around the clock, even after sunset.
Renewable energy continuously evolves, and South Africa, by introducing the Redstone solar tower, once again demonstrates that it is a leader in innovation in this field. The project, which uses concentrated solar power (CSP) technology, delivers up to 1,727,500 GJ of clean energy annually, stabilizing the national energy system and reducing CO2 emissions. A key element of this power plant is storing heat in molten salt, which allows for generating energy for 12 hours a day – even after sunset.
A true revolution in energy
South Africa has taken a significant step towards the future by launching a solar tower with a capacity of 100 MW. This innovative project provides clean energy and highlights the region’s commitment to developing renewable energy sources.
The Redstone solar tower, built in the Northern Cape province, stands out for its use of CSP (concentrated solar power) technology. This technology enables the generation of electricity from solar energy all day and night, giving South Africa a stable source of energy, which reduces CO2 emissions and lessens dependence on fossil fuels.
The key here is mirrors and… salt
The heart of this solar tower’s operation is technology based on precisely positioned mirrors, known as heliostats, designed to focus sunlight on a heat receiver at the top of the tower. In this case, the key element is the use of molten salt, which stores energy in heat.
Thanks to this, the solar tower can supply energy even after sunset, ensuring continuity in electricity production for 12 hours a day. This innovative solution makes Redstone a groundbreaking project on a global scale, and the applied technology could become a model for other countries.
Source: essanews.com-Kaw-2 October 2024