Integration of solar energy in coal-fired power plants retrofitted with carbon capture: A review

This paper reviews the utilization of solar thermal energy technology in assisting coal-fired power plants retrofitted with post-combustion carbon capture (PCC). The focus is on compensating the so-called ‘energy penalty’ imposed on the power plant output by the introduction of PCC plant operations. The integration of solar thermal energy can offset the power plant output reduction due to the PCC installation by totally, or partially providing the energy requirement of the carbon capture plant. The main process integration approaches proposed in this regard are reviewed; their advantages and drawbacks are discussed considering technical and climatic factors. The paper also discusses the merits of this hybridization of power, capture and solar plants as a transition solution for future low-carbon power generation.