Techno-Economic Performance Analysis of a CSP-Driven CCGT with Stratified TES at Various DNI Levels and Demand Conditions Based on Transient Simulation

In this work, an innovative CSP plant concept comprising a combined Brayton and Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) and a stratified Thermal Energy Storage (TES) is investigated. A dynamic model of the plant is developed and used to perform annual simulations to investigate the plant at different locations under a variety of DNI levels and demand conditions. The focus of the study is on the dynamic behavior, in terms of response time to the demand profile and changing the operation mode, for example, from charging to discharging (dispatchability). Annual yield and LCOE calculations are performed for every scenario. Results show two optimization opportunities, in the first one, by means of a sensitivity analysis the design is adjusted and it is possible to increase 10% of the electricity production. A second analysis shows the possibility of including an operational mode that maximizes the use of TES and increases electricity production by 11%. The application of both strategies results in a 21% increase in electricity.