At present the return-on-investment rate for solar-thermal power parks is very low.  To improve these results fundamental factors like accurate direct-sun radiation estimations and the adequate technology for each type of installation need to be considered. Ingeteam will be researching on new subject matters that target these aspects, in a sector that Spain barely has experience with.

Firstly, the different models of operation and maintenance of solar-thermal parks will be analyzed in detail.  Thereafter a multi-technology analysis tool will be designed to estimate the technical and economic feasibility of each park and carry out simulations of a park in operation.

The previewed research topics will include analyzing forms of increasing the network of measurements to attain a more precise control over each park, how to improve management programs by feeding them with more data on earth and satellite features, based on the solar radiation spectrum, and how to enhance installation cost-effectiveness models.

More precisely, in what concerns the latter, Ingeteam will be studying and using solar radiation historical data to evaluate the best locations of the installation and determine, with improved precision, its feasibility.

In line with the firm’s strategic approach to this emerging market, this project falls within the framework of the 2009-2010 MILESTONE research projects. These projects are financed by FEDER and the Department of Education, Science and Technology.