SolarPACES (Concentrating Solar Power, Thermal, and Chemical Energy Systems) is an international conference that aims to bring researchers together from across the world and focus on the development of concentrating solar power systems. It is widely considered as the annual global get together of the CSP community.
A group of students and academic staff from the Solar Thermal Energy Research Group (STERG) attended the SolarPACES 2024 conference, which took place from the 7th to 11th October in Rome, Italy.
STERG delegation at SolarPACES 2024 (from left to right): Jean Schnaar-Campbell, Benjamin Gardiner, Rorisang Lekholoane, Matthew Meas, Eduard Fourie, Prof Craig McGregor, Arend Moelich and Mu-een Khan
The group made a strong impact at the conference with seven presentations in total – six poster presentations and one oral presentation, showcasing STERG’s ongoing research with leading industry experts and fellow researchers in the field of concentrated solar power.
Beyond the formal presentations, the conference was an excellent platform for networking and relationship building. The team engaged actively with international colleagues, laying the groundwork for future research collaborations.
Several exciting technologies and concepts were showcased at the conference, with a notable focus on hybrid CSP systems, energy storage solutions, and decarbonisation strategies. There was significant interest in the use of ceramic materials in high-temperature storage, and the integration of hydrogen production within CSP systems. Discussions also covered hybrid systems combining CSP, PV, and battery technologies to enhance flexibility and reliability in energy production.
After the conference, the STERG delegation took the opportunity to stay in Rome and explore the city. The group visited several tourist attractions, including the Colosseum, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Borghese gardens and Pantheon.
STERG delegation outside Colosseum
The students would like to thank STERG for sponsoring the delegation’s conference attendance to STERG’s premier conference.
Article by Benjamin Gardiner, Leigh van der Merwe