Analysis and Feasibility Study of a Parabolic Solar Concentration System Installed on the Roof of the Energy Center Utilizing Organic Rankine Cycle

The thesis study focuses on the analysis and feasibility of powering an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) with an electrical power production of 10 kW, driven by a parabolic trough Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plant. The reference plant is the parabolic reflector installed on the roof of the Energy Center at the Polytechnic University of Turin. After focusing on global energy demand and the limits set in recent years, this study describes the fundamental elements of concentrated solar technology, addressing its state of the art and applications. Leading up to the thesis work, the functioning and operation of storage systems were discussed, given the unpredictability of the solar renewable source. This concluded with the description of the Organic Rankine Cycle and the potential plant strategies for energy production. ORC is a conventional Rankine Cycle driven by organic compound as working fluid instead of water, and it is particularly appropriate for low temperature applications. Different influences were studied based on the type of fluid, with a greater focus on single-cycle and regenerative plant strategies. The ORC cycle and then the parabolic collector are sized according to the electric power produced and the choice of the organic fluid. For the sizing of the Organic Rankine Cycle, the plant is built on the ASPEN PLUS software that allow to schematize it in both simple and regenerative configurations. Through its use, the report focuses on presenting and discussing operational differences under vary conditions and optimal operating points, within critical operational limits. Simulation results have therefore allowed to demonstrate the feasibility of the plant and to discuss its potential.