Concentrating Solar Thermal Systems in Greece: Current Status and Future Potential
Abstract
It is a truism that renewable energy sources (RES) facilitate countries to address their objectives regarding a secure, clean, reliable and affordable energy. Greece has committed itself to achieving a renewable energy share of 35% in its aggregate energy mix by 2030, up from 31% presently, which is planned to come mainly from wind, solar and hydroelectric power plants. Concentrating solar thermal (CST) systems have the ability to provide dispatchable power to the grid, due to their inherent thermal storage capacity. Therefore, they are expected to play an important role in the European energy transition plan. Furthermore, CST systems can deliver high temperature process heat for industrial applications. This research work addresses the CST technology and discusses the current status, the national strategy and policy measures, as well as the future potential in the electricity and the industrial sector of Greece.