Eco Factor: Hybrid power plant to reduce the use of coal to produce steam.
Minneapolis-based Xcel Energy has started an experimental power plant in Colorado, which uses both solar power and coal to produce energy. The demonstration plant, called Cameo, will test new technologies that help cut greenhouse gas emissions.
The plant, which is slated for shutdown by the end of 2010, has been converted to test the use of parabolic-trough mirrors, designed by Abengoa Solar. The mirrors focus sun’s heat on tubes filled with mineral oil, heating oil to about 575 degrees Fahrenheit.
The heat is used to heat water to about 360 degrees converting it to steam. The project includes eight rows of mirrors covering 6.4 acres. Steam generated by the process is used to power a steam turbine. The solar heated water cuts the amount of coal required to produce steam and hence electricity.
Via: Business Journal/Huffington Post
