The government has announced a bid window in March 2014 for 200 MW of concentrated solar power (CSP).

Owing to the increased demand on the grid, the Department of Energy has implemented a new Integrated Resource Plan to enhance generation capacity and promote energy efficiency. The plan sees the initial allocation of Photovoltaics (PV) and CSP raised considerably.

Although more costly than PV, the government has recognised the flexibility that CSP offers to the grid, and has announced a bid window in March 2014 solely for CSP, where 200 MW are to be allocated.

CSP Today South Africa 2014

In relation to this, CSP Today South Africa 2014 will invite experts to focus on CSP.

Eskom will identify the role CSP can play in improving energy efficiency by meeting current demand during peak times and stabilising the grid. International developers Abengoa and ACWA Power will assess strategies employed to optimise thermal storage depending on the scale of the plant and the needs of the market.

The third concentrated thermal power conference and expo will be held on 8 and 9 April in Cape Town.