Abstract

KROGER, D.G.  and  BLAINE, D.. Analysis of the driving potential of a solar chimney power plant. R&D j. (Matieland, Online) [online]. 1999, vol.15, pp.85-94. ISSN 2309-8988.

In a solar chimney power plant energy is generated due to a stream of air that is heated in a solar collector and driven by buoyancy effects through a turbine located at the base of the chimney. The driving potential of this air stream is essentially the difference in pressure between the ambient atmosphere at ground level and the pressure of the heated air at the base of the tower. Since this pressure differential is small compared to the absolute values from which it is determined and since it can be significantly influenced by ambient conditions, detailed theoretical modelling incorporating adequate and reliable meteorological data is required. The merits of different theoretical models as well as the influence of prevailing ambient conditions on the driving potential are evaluated. It is shown that moist air generally improves the draft and that condensation may occur in the chimney under certain conditions.

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