Apr 20th, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Title
20 MW Solar Power Plant
Faculty Sponsor
Dr. James Ferguson
Information
PowerWorks LLC, a privately-owned renewable energy development company, has asked a student team at Boise State University to design a 20 MW solar power plant. Various technologies have been researched and the three kilowatt dish-stirling Infinia Solar System has been selected as the most efficient and cost effective technology. A parametric solid model has been used to determine the closest allowable array spacing. A mathematical model of the project has been developed to simulate various input levels and conversion efficiencies. An electrical flow diagram was created to develop a balanced plant layout. An economic analysis was formulated to determine the initial project cost, operation and maintenance costs over the 25 year life of the project, and the internal rate of return for the project. The results of our analysis led to the selection of a three by three array configuration and wide array spacing.