Torresol Energy, a partnership between Masdar and the Spanish engineering firm Sener, has been honored with the ‘Commercialised Technology Innovation of the Year’ award at the Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) Summit in Las Vegas. The accolade recognizes the advanced technology used at Torresol’s Gemasolar plant.
The 19.9-megawatt Gemasolar plant stands out due to its cutting-edge molten salt storage system, which is the most advanced of its kind in renewable energy. This technology allows the plant to produce electricity even when the sun isn’t shining, storing enough energy to continue generating power for up to 15 hours after sunset.
This innovation means that the Gemasolar plant can supply electricity around the clock for many months each year, including during dark or cloudy periods. It serves about 25,000 households and helps prevent the emission of 30,000 tonnes of CO2 annually.
The molten salt technology, developed by Sener, involves a receiver that absorbs 95% of solar radiation. This energy is used to heat the molten salt, which then generates steam to power turbines and produce electricity.
Frank Wouters, director of Masdar Power, highlighted that this award reflects Masdar’s and the UAE’s leading role in advancing solar energy technology. Sener’s contribution included designing the plant, providing technology, and overseeing construction and commissioning.
Masdar Power, part of Masdar’s renewable energy initiatives, focuses on developing and investing in large-scale renewable projects, including concentrated solar power, photovoltaic solar, and wind energy.
