Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation Limited (RRECL) has approved NTPC to set up a 320 kW pilot concentrated solar power (CSP) project at Bhadla Solar Park in Rajasthan. The project will test ceramic-based thermal energy storage technology to generate electricity using solar energy stored during the day, including after sunset.
The project aims to assess the possibility of generating solar power at night while reducing dependence on conventional battery storage. Electricity generated through the pilot project will be used for internal and auxiliary consumption at the NTPC plant.Under the proposed technology, solar energy captured during the day will be stored as heat in high-temperature ceramic modules. After sunset, the stored heat will be used to operate an air turbine and generate electricity.
The project will use ceramic thermal energy storage technology developed by US-based company 247Solar. NTPC is working with RRECL to implement and test the technology at Bhadla.
Following the approval, preliminary feasibility studies, site surveys and structural testing will be undertaken at the project site.
Solar power generation after sunset remains a challenge because conventional solar photovoltaic plants depend on sunlight and require storage systems to supply electricity after generation hours. The pilot project will assess whether thermal storage using ceramic modules can provide an alternative to chemical battery-based storage.If the technology proves feasible, it could be considered for deployment at other solar power projects. The pilot will also provide data on its operational performance and suitability for integration with existing solar infrastructure.
