Concentrated Solar Power (CSP): Technological Innovations, Hybrid Systems and Environmental and Social Impacts

Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technologies are key for decarbonising high-temperature industrial processes and generating dispatchable renewable electricity. Advances include thermal storage, nanofluids, nano-encapsulated PCMs and hybrid systems with photovoltaics, geothermal, biomass and hydrogen. Studies show low emissions and positive effects on rural and Indigenous communities. Challenges include water use, land impact, material toxicity and cultural sensitivity.