The parabolic trough is a type of solar thermal energy collector that uses curved mirrors to concentrate sunlight onto a receiver tube. This concentrated sunlight is then used to heat a fluid, which is then used to generate electricity. Parabolic troughs are typically used in large-scale solar power plants, and are one of the most common types of solar thermal energy collectors.
Parabolic troughs are well-suited for large-scale solar power plants due to their high efficiency and low cost. They are also relatively easy to install and maintain, making them a popular choice for many solar power plants.
Parabolic troughs are used in many countries around the world, including the United States, Spain, and India. In the United States, parabolic troughs are used in several large-scale solar power plants, including the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System in California and the Solana Generating Station in Arizona.
Some companies in the parabolic trough market include Abengoa Solar, BrightSource Energy, SolarReserve, and Solar Millennium. Show Less Read more
