The project is part of a $62m DOE initiative to collaborate with industry to research and develop concentrating solar power (CSP) systems, which provide renewable low-cost electrical power.
GrafTech said it will apply its core capabilities and presence in the solar industry to partner with SENER and the university in the development of a solar plant storage system, which will be designed using technology that can extend the operating temperature range of thermal storage.
In the project, GrafTech is partnering with SENER to construct a pilot plant in Seville, California, which will represent the next generation of solar plants. The university will conduct complete storage system simulation tailored to demonstrate storage plant size and characteristics, and test execution and test reports.
Craig Shular, CEO of GrafTech, said: “As part of our growth strategy, GrafTech has been committed to applying our core competencies in graphite and carbon solutions to rapidly growing industries such as solar and energy production.
“Through this grant, we have the opportunity to participate in the country’s efforts to research and develop clean, renewable sources of energy. This initiative also enables us to apply our expertise in developing custom carbon and graphite materials to further the solar industry, which ultimately will drive down the cost of energy.”
