ABB was brought into the project at an early stage by eSolar to develop an automation solution that works with eSolar’s heliostat field control system and modular receivers to harness the sunlight at the 20 acre site in Southern California. Sierra SunTower is a commercially operated solar thermal power plant.
Bill Gross, CEO of eSolar, said: “We quickly realized that ABB possessed the elements to play a critical role in the development of our Sierra project. ABB’s contributions have already exceeded our expectations, both in design and implementation.”
ABB developed a control solution for the thermal receivers and the balance of plant based on its Extended Automation System 800xA for power generation. The solution includes ABB’s Power Generation Information Manager and a remote diagnostic service capability that enables the company to diagnose and correct System 800xA-related issues by remote.
The system is interfaced with the Woodward turbine control system to ensure smooth operation of the steam turbine generator and eSolar’s proprietary heliostat field control system.
