The latest mid-term renewable energy outlook document from the International Energy Agency says China, Chile, Morocco and South Africa are likely to take a lead in solar thermal developments in the next five years. There is no mention of Australia.
“Despite being a small market, CSP remains a proven renewable technology that provides flexibility benefits to power grids, especially when integrated with thermal storage,” the IEA says in its report. “The technology’s output can then follow closely the electricity demand profile during the day in regions with high direct normal irradiance (“clear skies”) and provide firm peak, intermediate or base-load capacity.”
Note – surely essential part of experience in mix of technologies, unless Coal-ition want to wait and mail order from China. Cheapest idea from Minister Hunt is solar PV with molten salt storage!
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