A solar tower can be described as an energy-generating structure that looks like a tower. It uses mirrors and sunlight to focus. It is also known to be a central tower energy plant or a helicopter stat. The rays of the sun pass through an array of flat, movable mirrors. This structure utilizes concentrated sunlight for electricity generation and other useful energy.
Avian vaporizers
Unenviable title: "avian vaporizers" is given to solar power stations. More than 100 birds have been killed by the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System tower. Birds are killed by the intense solar flux that creates a dangerous circle of heat energy. Basin & Range Watch obtained a Freedom of Information Act requested video that shows biologists filming the solar flux on birds. Scientists comment on the phenomenon by observing the birds, which include horned and larks. The video also shows the mirrors at the standby position creating a deadly circle of bird-trapping flux.
Heat engines
Researchers from MIT and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) have developed a heat engine that can convert thermal energy into electricity. The new device doesn’t require moving parts and has a higher rate of conversion than a traditional steam engine. It uses a thermophotovoltaic cell to convert higher-energy photons from a white-hot heat source into electrical energy.
Downdraft energy towers
Downdraft energy turbines are a revolutionary method to generate green power. These towers harness the power of wind and solar energy to generate power. Philip Carson invented downdraft towers in 1975. Technion Israel Institute of Technology works to improve it. The company says it will produce abundant green electricity at an affordable price.
Heliostats
The reflective area of a heliostat is composed of several mirrors. In some cases, this area can be as large as 150 square meters. Heliostats can maximize the sun's energy reflection and minimize their weight. Additionally, they must not cause damage to the tower's two-axis movement. However, the larger the surface area of a heliostat, the larger the optical losses. Larger surfaces also require more frequent maintenance and optimization.
Bird and insect deaths
California's solar power plant is causing major problems for birds and insects. The intense beams of sunlight inside the towers cause birds to ignite in mid-air and perish. This has already led to the deaths of thousands of birds, insects and other animals. According to the most recent study on solar power plants, between 37.800 - 138.600 avian deaths are caused by them each year. These numbers are not surprising as solar power plants have significantly less fatalities than fossil fuel power or windows.
Environmental impact
Construction of solar towers can have many negative effects on the environment. One of the biggest problems is the water waste. Some solar power plants use large volumes of water for cooling turbine generators and cleaning equipment. This can negatively impact local ecosystems, particularly in dry regions.