USF has developed a concentrated solar system comprising a solar tower supporting multiple vertically spaced solar receivers and a heliostat field that concentrates solar radiation on the receivers. This invention solves the inefficiency issue of using a single receiver. The vertical spaced configuration facilitates the efficient utilization of ground space. Heliostats that are further away can concentrate on the higher receiver and vice versa. This technology also allows the solar receivers to have different technologies, designs, and aiming points. It also allows the solar receivers to integrate different heat transfer fluids (liquid or gas) to maximize the efficiency of the system.
General Configuration of Vertically Spaced Solar Receivers Technology