Port Augusta Solar Thermal Feasibility Study

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This project focused on the pre-feasibility work needed to assess the viability of a stand-alone solar thermal plant using ‘power tower’ technology that would see a field of mirrors concentrate light into a central receiver at the top of a tower. The high temperatures generated by power tower technology make it most compatible with molten-salt storage.It was ultimately determined that the proposed project would not be commercially viable. In late 2011 Alinta Energy began to assess potential solar thermal opportunities in regional South Australia (SA). Its Solar Concept Study concluded that SA is a high-quality location for solar thermal energy, and that stand-alone concentrated solar power could be feasible.Alinta then commissioned Parsons Brinckerhoff in 2014 to examine the available solar thermal technologies and potential locations for a solar thermal power plant in SA. The consultants found that a 50MW solar thermal plant near Port Augusta’s existing power stations was technically feasible.

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