Fresnel Amplification for Decentralized Solar Thermal Power Production

Abstract The growing demand for clean and sustainable energy underscores the importance of utilizing solar power. Fresnel lenses, known for their ability to focus sunlight into a high-intensity beam, offer a compact and cost-effective alternative to traditional solar concentrators. This research investigates the thermal efficiency and practicality of small-scale Fresnel lens steam generation for power production. An industrial Fresnel lens was used to concentrate sunlight onto a water reservoir functioning as a boiler. The produced steam was then used in a microturbine to generate electricity. Temperature and pressure data was recorded to evaluate the system’s performance. The overall feasibility of this energy source was further evaluated based on installation parameters and environmental factors, including lens alignment, atmospheric conditions, and potential heat losses. These findings suggest that if Fresnel lens solar-thermal systems are properly scaled, they may serve as an alternative solution for decentralized energy production or residential heating, particularly in off-grid regions.