Dynamic optimization of a solar thermal energy storage system over a 24 hour period using weather forecasts

A solar thermal power plant is used as a case study for dynamic heat integration with thermal energy storage. Findings show that thermal energy storage gives the system the ability to make the power dispatchable. Additionally, by solving a 24-hour dynamic optimization problem where the plant temperatures and power output are variable allows the system to capture and harvest a higher percentage of solar energy, with the most benefit occurring on mostly cloudy days. The solar energy captured increases 64% from 4.75 MWh to 7.80 MWh using this scheme. Hybrid plant operation and the ability to bypass the storage tanks further improve the system performance.