Linear Fresnel reflector type solar thermal concentrator system: A critical review on design parameters, and future in medium temperature applications

Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) can generate renewable power. The Linear Fresnel reflector (LFR) system is a category of line-type solar concentrators that can harvest solar energy at high temperatures. While high-temperature fluid brings better efficiency for electricity generation or steam generation for industry, reflectors in CSP contribute 50 % of the total cost of installation. The high capital cost and life cycle costs of solar thermal concentrators are limitations, while the benefits of storage for deferred usage is the advantages. While the LFR offers comparable end use like parabolic trough collector (PTC),achieving competitive optical efficiency demands minimizing capital and operational costs. The current work reviews the LFR designs, critical factors for performance, rural livelihood heat requirements, pilot projects, commercial projects, research outcomes, and suitability for modifications. For typical industrial and rural livelihood activities, the heat requirement is in the range of 50ºC to 180ºC.Thus, an LFR system can be used as a solar energy component in polygeneration systems, which is cost-effective for rural livelihood applications.