Why Concentrated Solar Power is the kind of solar that could replace natural gas plants

1. Spinning Reserve: The generator in a thermal power block is rotating at a speed that will produce power at precisely the same frequency as the grid power frequency.
2. Voltage Support: Thermal power plants can help maintain grid stability by providing reactive power support. Reactive power is required to regulate voltage levels and keep them within acceptable limits. Thermal power plants help maintain grid voltage stability by injecting or absorbing reactive power.
3. Load Following: Thermal power plants can adjust their output based on daily load fluctuations. They can ramp up or down their generation to match the changing demand, ensuring a balance between electricity supply and consumption.
4. Voltage Control: Thermal power plants can actively regulate grid voltage by adjusting their reactive power output. This helps maintain the desired voltage levels at various points in the grid and ensures the quality and reliability of the electricity supply.
5. Grid Stability and Resilience: Thermal power plants provide grid stability by acting as a reliable source of electricity generation. They contribute to the overall resilience of the grid by providing a stable and controllable source of power that can support the integration of intermittent renewable energy sources.