The use of molten salt in concentrated solar power (CSP) plants significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions by enabling reliable, carbon-free electricity generation on demand, replacing fossil fuel power sources.
Molten salt acts as a thermal energy storage medium that is heated by concentrated sunlight during the day. This stored thermal energy can then be used to generate steam and run turbines even when the sun is not shining—such as at night or on cloudy days—providing continuous electricity without burning fossil fuels. This ability to deliver dispatchable power has the potential to retire older, carbon-intensive coal and gas plants, directly cutting emissions from electricity generation.
Unlike battery storage used with solar photovoltaics, molten salt storage is currently more cost-effective for long-duration energy storage. CSP plants with molten salt can store eight to ten hours of thermal energy, allowing them to meet electricity demand similarly to fossil fuel plants but without associated carbon emissions. The salt itself is stable when melted and can be cycled daily for decades with minimal degradation, providing a durable and sustainable storage solution.
By replacing fossil fuels with solar energy stored as molten salt heat, CSP plants drastically reduce carbon dioxide emissions linked to power generation. The technology eliminates the need for natural gas backup and does not involve combustion, so no direct greenhouse gases are produced during operation. Additionally, improvements in molten salt formulations and storage technology continue enhancing efficiency and lowering costs, further incentivizing the adoption of this clean energy method.
In summary, integrating molten salt thermal storage in CSP plants enables clean, reliable, and dispatchable solar power that significantly decreases greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel generation and facilitating continuous renewable electricity supply.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-does-the-use-of-molten-salt-in-csp-plants-impact-greenhouse-gas-emissions/
