Potential of Concentrating Solar Power in Canada

In this paper, results of an analysis to assess the potential of concentrating solar thermal power applications in Canada are presented. First, a direct normal solar resource (DNI) resource map for Canada is introduced. This map indicates the locations where the DNI is the highest in Canada and is derived from the most recent Perez's SUNY satellite-based solar resource model Version number 3. Second, the methodology and results of a GIS analysis to identify the locations of the most suitable lands for concentrating solar thermal power (CSP) applications in Canada are discussed. The total areas of the CSP-suitable lands are presented in a tabulated and a map formats for each of the Canadian provinces where there is a maximum DNI solar resource. Third and finally, results of a technical economical analysis for two CSP system designs are discussed. The two CSP systems considered include parabolic trough with synthetic oil heat transfer fluid with and without storage, molten salt power tower with and without storage.