ASTEP Project: Status And Progress At 2024
Abstract
Solar thermal energy for industrial processes (SHIP) is gaining relevance for meeting industrial thermal energy demands. This method offers a twofold advantage: reducing fossil fuel consumption and emissions while establishing a distinct market niche for solar technology. The ASTEP project, funded by the European Commission focuses on an innovative SHIP concept. Integrating modular designs—SunDial solar collectors from and phase-change material thermal storage—ASTEP employs a flexible control system. It aims to demonstrate its capability to fulfill a significant portion of industrial heat demand above 150 ºC in latitudes challenging for existing designs.