A comparison between model predictive and PID-based control of a molten salt solar tower receiver.

In this paper a model predictive control (MPC) for operating a solar tower receiver is evaluated and compared with the performance of a PID-based control, that is considered as conventional control approach. The receiver outlet temperature is controlled by the mass flow, while the solar irradiance is considered as measurable disturbance. The control algorithms are tested via simulation on a virtual power plant based on a high-fidelity model of the receiver. For carrying out the evaluations, 24 validation cases are evaluated in terms of control error and compliance with limits for a high durability of receiver. As a result, the MPC has the potential to operate a solar tower molten salt receiver in a secure and optimal way as well as to increase the degree of automation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]