Smart Grid Solaire Thermique

Solutions developed

The purpose of the Smart Grid Solar Thermal project is to initiate a new sector of use of solar thermal energy in France, with integration into heat networks and the development of an offer adapted to these markets. The project will allow the development of methodologies adapted to the French context (sizing) and the adaptation of business models (sales contract, purchase ...). It provides for the monitoring of two demonstrators, including a solar power plant connected to a biomass boiler at Balma, near Toulouse, and the development of specific components (solar collectors, substations, storage, etc.).

Main results

The project is structured to lead to a "package" comprising technical, economic and legal solutions to ensure the development of technology:
- Specific scientific and technological developments to meet the requirements of heat networks that will lead to a pre-industrialization phase of specific solar collectors with high energy performance (flat collectors);
- Determination of solar market prospects for heat networks according to technological possibilities (temperature levels, urban density, medium / long term storage systems);
- Follow-up of demonstrators to validate the developments made;
- New business models, particularly economic and legal, to create the tools that are essential for introducing the market and sustaining the value chain.