How many solar thermal power demonstration projects are there in China?

The Blue Book summarizes the operational status of seven solar thermal power demonstration projects in China and one solar tower plant in a multi-energy complementary project.

Does China need thermal energy storage?

China required from the first demonstration phase that each CSP project must include thermal energy storage, marking the first recognition globally of the value of the low cost and longevity of thermal energy storage. As a power station storing solar energy thermally, CSP operates like a gas plant to supply grid services like rolling reserves.

What is solar thermal power generation?

The Blue Book points out that solar thermal power generation helps to configure large-capacity, long-cycle, safer, and low-carbon energy storage systems.With the use of conventional turbine generator sets, the systems are characterized by rotational inertia and grid-wide synchronization   machine。

When did solar water heating start in China?

Development of China's solar water heating (SWH) industry started in the 1980s, the market was initially focused on low income families in the countryside or in small towns at that time. The technology was simple, supplying hot water at low cost for domestic use.

How much solar power does China have?

According to statistics of the China Solar Thermal Alliance, by the end of 2021, the total installed capacity of global solar thermal power generation reached 6.8 GW, and the figure in China was 538 MW (only including power generation systems at or higher than the MW scale).

What is the biggest solar project in Southeast Asia?

3. Dau Tieng Photovoltaic Solar Power Project (500 MW) in Vietnam is the biggest solar project in Southeast Asia and the world's largest semi-immersed photovoltaic project.