Multi-objective optimization of concentrated solar power plants from an energy-water-environment nexus perspective under distinct climatic conditions – Part A: Techno-economic analysis

In the current article, which is first to a two-part study, techno-economic evaluation, viability and optimization of concentrated solar power plants considering design parameters multiple integration thermal energy storage performed. High frequency (10 min), validated ground datasets are used for numerical simulations using System Advisor Model. Techno-economic performance analysis dry wet cooling system equipped tower parabolic trough collectors assessed three different climatic zones i.e. temperate, semi-arid sub-tropical. The problem intends maximize technical potential alongside minimizing net cost electricity production. It found that on average, 60 75% increase in annual generation, 5 7% decrease levelized observed with addition 6 h plants, respectively. For cost-effective solution, optimal combination range 3–3.2 15.4–15.9 tower, 2.3–3 10.6–11.6 plants. Wet-cooled towers perform best each zone offering 5–6% lower production 3–7% higher generation potentials. Moreover, mutually exclusive projects, better metric gauge economic than present value. follow-up study (Part B) focuses environ-economic Furthermore, outcomes from both objectives utilized multi-objective based ‘balanced’ solution assessment next part.