In Short : For three days in a row, from August 13 to 15, Cosin Solar’s hybrid Jinta Zhongguang project—which consists of 600 MW of solar PV and a 100 MW tower Concentrated Solar electricity (CSP) system—achieved uninterrupted, 24-hour electricity generation. Daily production topped 1,000 MWh during this time, reaching a record 1,317 MWh on August 14.
Boosting Strategic Outcomes
In order to prioritize PV output, the CSP unit modified its generation load, ramping up to maximum capacity at night and decreasing output during the hours of greatest sunlight. This operational approach maximizes resource complementarity by reflecting the project’s planned design. The plant has produced over 15,548 MWh in spite of difficult weather circumstances, logging 391.2 operating hours over 26 days since its grid connection on May 28 and full commissioning on July 10.
Maintaining Innovation in Technology
With no malfunctions or downtime, the project’s low-position tank design and sophisticated molten salt storage have greatly increased thermal transfer efficiency. In order to absorb excess PV power during the day, electric heaters are also being employed; this paradigm supports the economic returns and viability of hybrid CSP+PV.
Impact and Significance of Clean Energy
The feasibility of hybrid CSP+PV systems with thermal storage, which can provide consistent, dispatchable renewable energy—even under fluctuating operating conditions—is highlighted by this innovation. The Jinta project exemplifies a trailblazing approach to scalable, resilient sustainable energy infrastructure by optimizing solar use and integrating day-night performance.
