ABSTRACT:
A two-dimensional, vertical cross-section, numerical atmospheric mesoscale model has been applied to study the potential local/regional atmospheric effects of the installation of a 100 MWe solar thermal central receiver power plant at Barstow, California. The model can simulate the changes in surface characteristics associated with the installation of heliostats and other power plant ancilliaries, and can simulate the effects of waste heat from cooling towers. The model equations have been integrated to simulate typical summer, atypical summer, and typical winter conditions.

The results for typical summer conditions at Barstow and the surrounding region show that the power plant has the potential to increase local humidity and wind circulation but cannot induce the formation of clouds or rain. The results for atypical summer conditions show that the solar power plant has the potential to increase the wind circulation and to form clouds and rain. However, the life cycle of such formations is only 2-3 hours. The results for typical winter conditions do not indicate significant atmospheric perturbations as a result of solar power plant installation.

Sensitivity to the type and location of cooling tower has been tested and described. The atmospheric effects of a dry cooling tower located upwind are not as significant and intense as those produced using a wet cooling tower. The effect of a wet cooling tower located at the downwind edge of the power plant is an increase in humidity in the downwind portion of the model atmosphere. The effects of solar-power plant-induced atmospheric changes on the performance and design of the power plant itself have also been examined and are shown to be significantly. affected in atypical conditions.