Methods, systems, and devices for choosing a point from a set of optimal solutions defined as the output of a problem in such a way that small perturbations to the input variables of the problem may reliably produce small changes to the output. Embodiments may determine the optimal point for concentrating solar thermal power plants utilizing heliostats, based on a linear function, one or more constraints, and a determined space of optimal solutions.

A method for operating a directly heated, solar-thermal steam generator is provided. As per the method, a nominal value {dot over (M)}.sub.s for the supply water mass flow {dot over (M)} is conducted to an apparatus for adjusting the supply water mass flow {dot over (M)} wherein, at the adjustment of the nominal value {dot over (M)}.sub.s for the supply water mass flow {dot over (M)}, account is taken of a correction value K.sub.T, by which the thermal effects of storage or withdrawal of thermal energy in an evaporator are corrected.

A solar energy collection system comprises hollow radiation absorber(s) in an enclosure, each absorber for filling with working fluid, to absorb radiation impinging thereon and transform its energy into heat to thereby heat the fluid. The system comprises an inlet non-return valve upstream of each absorber, for allowing a flow of the fluid thereto; and an outlet valve downstream of each absorber for allowing a flow of the fluid out. The system comprises a measuring device for determining parameter(s) of the fluid within each absorber, which depends on the heat absorbed thereby; and a controller that controls operation of at least the outflow valve between its open state in which the fluid can flow freely out of the associated absorber, and its closed state in which the fluid filling the associated absorber is held therein for a period of time depending on a desired change of the parameter.

Methods and systems for optimizing the startup, shutdown, and running operation of a multiple receiver concentrated solar power (CSP) plant comprising a predicted variable from at least one receiver model, a predicted variable from a plant model, and a determined target from an optimizer based on the predicted variable from the at least one receiver model and the predicted variable from the plant model.

The present invention pertains to a fluid-flow control system (O) that renders an exergy-based optimal output based on the maximization of the total exergy at any given time via control, and suffices an innovative, exergy-based purpose function which instantly optimizes flow in/into any system (S) of power and/or heat generation, industrial or all kinds of manufacturing systems where liquid, gas, and/or one or more phases of fluid is/are involved. Systemic, environmental, technical factors such as equipment performance, losses, demand/supply inputs, temperature and pressure data are considered within the optimization system with the particular help of instrumentation and data control units, and flow control units such as the variable flow/displacement pumps.

The present disclosure provides a method in an agrivoltaic system comprising photovoltaic panels disposed to cast a shadow on plants when irradiated by sunlight. The photovoltaic panels are controllable for adjusting said shadow. The method comprises obtaining a comparison signal indicative of a comparison between a temperature of ambient air and a temperature of the plants; and controlling one or more of said photovoltaic panels to adjust the shadow cast by said one or more photovoltaic panels on the plants using said comparison signal.

Plant for the production of electrical energy comprising a support structure formed by support poles (2) aligned along a first axis (X) fixed to the ground, said structure being configured with a plurality of parallel rows (Fi) of such poles (2) with any orientation, resulting in the formation of a two-dimensional structure along said axis (X) and a second axis (Y) differently oriented with respect to the first, said structure being installed on an agricultural land (T), and the distance between the support poles, along both axes (X, Y) is such as to allow the passage and processing of the land by agricultural vehicles or vehicles. On said support structure and in particular on rows of poles being positioned devices for generating electrical energy and systems for the movement or orientation of such generating devices. The plant comprises means for controlling the growth of the crops underlying the plant.