The first SOLARX webinar was held on 18th September from 10:00–11:00, attracting more than 40 participants from the industry and academia. The event zoomed in on the possibilities of modelling, analyzing and simulating complex energy systems through the three SOLARX partners and experts in the field.
The SOLARX partner EMD International has recently developed an advanced model of the SOLARX system using energyPRO, the leading software for modelling, analysing and simulating complex energy systems including cross-sectional optimization. The created model enables us to assess and maximize the operational income, monitor electricity generation from each specific unit, enhance system flexibility delivered by the storage capacity, and dispatch the receivers for optimal operation. The partners had the opportunity to share how using energyPRO, we are ready to make the SOLARX system more efficient and profitable, helping to create a more sustainable energy future.
The first part of the webinar was guided by Prof. Jérôme Barrau, SOLARX project Coordinator, who presented the benefits of integrating multiple receivers in a single tower. Jérôme exposed the motivations for developing a dispatchable concentrated Solar-to X solution and explained the objectives and the expected impacts of the SOLARX project.
Afterwards, Ms. Marta Murkowska, R&D Engineer at EMD International, went through the process of setting up a SOLARX system model in energyPRO. Marta demonstrated how energyPRO gives access to relevant hourly weather data and how to import hourly Day-ahead prices for the chosen location and year. She showcased how to utilize the online database of irradiance, presented the assumptions made in modelling the solar field and receivers and explained the integration of the molten salt heat storage and steam turbine.
Finally, Prof. Anders N. Andersen, R&D project responsible at EMD International, showcased some results of the SOLARX project modelling focus on storing energy in molten salt tanks, later to be used for covering process heat demand or converted to electricity in a steam turbine. Anders revealed the optimization results of the SOLARX plant, highlighting the system’s flexibility and the benefits of heat storage.
The three speakers answered the questions raised by the participants during a dedicated time for Q&A, engaging in a discussion about the challenges faced when modelling complex energy systems and the uncertainties regarding prices or DNI forecasting when performing cross-sectional optimizations.
Did you miss the event and want to know more about this topic? The full video of the first webinar is ready to watch on the SOLARX YouTube channel.
Modelling of complex energy systems in energyPRO has been the first one of our series of webinars. The next SOLARX webinar topic could potentially be about forecasting. Stay tuned as new insights from the upcoming webinars will be shared soon!
