The U.S. DOE describes concentrating solar power as a technique that produces solar electricity by concentrating and reflecting sunlight onto receivers using mirrors. The demand for concentrating solar power (CSP)is surging for the technology. With the application of CSP technology, solar energy might be captured, transformed into thermal energy for producing electricity, and then stored to deliver electricity as required.

In addition, CSP technology might be used as a fossil fuel backup or hybridization, enabling non-renewable projects to function more efficiently by cutting greenhouse gas emissions, while doing so at the same or lower prices.
CSP can take the form of a linear fresnel, power tower, parabolic trough, or dish-and-stirling system. for systems. Due to they are less expensive and more effective than other technologies, parabolic troughs are the most widespread option in numerous applications.

Power towers offer increased performance, low cost, high efficiency, and high-capacity factors, whereas Linear Fresnels are made up of ground-based reflectors that are angled at varying angles and flat-curved mirrors. Dish/Stirling systems are suitable for places without access to water since they don't require cooling systems to remove heat.

Benefits of Concentrated Solar Power
The CSP is a renewable energy source since its supply can never run out and it can be utilized continuously. It lessens carbon footprint as well.
CSP utilizes the natural resources of the planet, which is better for the environment than fossil fuels, which release carbon dioxide when burned. Both the air quality and the pace of climate change may be improved.

In contrast to intermittent energy sources like solar PV and wind power, CSP also offers a reasonably constant source of electricity. The power produced by CSP facilities is dependable and predictable because they have the capacity to store solar energy as molten salts.

The incorporation of CSP into current steam-based power facilities is simple. The adoption of CSP systems is possible even with those that use fossil fuels. Due to simplified operations and maintenance, CSP facilities also have lower operating costs than nuclear and hydrocarbon-based plants.

What Distinguishes Concentrated Solar Power from Solar Photovoltaic Power?
The process used to generate electricity is arguably the most significant distinction between solar PV and CSP. CSP systems use different mirror arrangements to convert solar energy into heat engines that generate electricity.

On the other hand, photovoltaic solar panels make use of the sun's light rather than its energy. PV immediately transforms light into electricity, in contrast to CSP. Instead of reflecting heat, the solar PV cells absorb light, which incites electrons to produce a current.

By capturing the direct current (DC) and converting it to alternating current (AC) with the aid of inverters, the direct current can be distributed throughout the electrical grid.

CSP systems employ Thermal Energy Storage (TES) technology to store energy so that power may be generated even when there isn't enough sunshine. PV systems employ direct sunlight rather than heat; hence they are unable to store thermal energy. CSP systems are therefore more effective and efficient in storing energy.