The
solar plant, called the Noor complex, uses concentrating solar power
(CSP) which is more expensive to install than the widely used
photovoltaic panels, but unlike them, enables the storage of energy for
nights and cloudy days.
Mirrors
focus the sun's light and heat up a liquid, which, when mixed with
water, reaches around 400 degree Celsius. The steam produced from this
process drives a turbine and generates electrical power.
A
cylinder full of salt is melted by the warmth from the mirrors during
the day, and stays hot enough at night to provide up to three hours of
power, according to World Bank, who partially financed construction of the plant through a $97 million loan from the Clean Technology Fund.
"With
this bold step toward a clean energy future, Morocco is pioneering a
greener development and developing a cutting edge solar technology," said Marie Francoise Marie-Nelly, World Bank Country Director for the Maghreb.
"The
returns on this investment will be significant for the country and its
people, by enhancing energy security, creating a cleaner environment,
and encouraging new industries and job creation."
Harnessing the power of salt
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Reviewed by Unknown
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