Linear Fresnel reflector technology in Brazil: a techno-economic evaluation

Abstract

This study aims to present the results of applying a computational tool developed to perform a technical-economic feasibility analysis of a large-scale Linear Fresnel Reflector (LFR) solar power plant. The viability analysis indicators were obtained considering that the electricity produced trades at the Regulated Contracting Environment of the Brazilian Electricity Market. The parametric structural optimization method is used to optimize the technical parameters of the plant. A case study was conducted to analyze the viability of Implementing a 100 MW LFR power plant in the five regions of Brazil. The results indicated that Northeastern is the best region to install this power plant. However, the project is not viable in all cities analyzed. A sensitivity analysis (SA) of some strategically selected variables was conducted to evaluate its impacts on the project's net present value of an optimized LFR plant located in the city with the best technical performance. Finally, an optimistic scenario was evaluated considering the net present value's response to the parameters investigated in the SA. For this scenario, the results indicated the project's economic viability.