Parabolic trough solar concentrators: A technology which can contribute towards Pakistan's energy future

The utilization of solar thermal energy has got prime importance in pakistan due to the current energy scarcity and escalating cost scenario in the country. parabolic trough solar concentrator is one of the most reliable technologies for utilization of solar thermal energy. in solar thermal power generation,parabolic trough solar concentrators are most successful as almost 96 percent of total solar thermal power is generated across the world by utilizing this technology. its high reliability,operational compatibility,comparative low cost and high efficiency adds to its high value among other resources. fortunately,pakistan lies in the high solar insolation zone; thus,a huge potential exists to benefit from this technology. this technology may cater to the pakistan's seasonal increased electricity demand. apart from electric power generation,this technology may also have cost-effective solutions for pakistan's other industries,like steam generation,preheating of boiler make-up water,air-conditioning,and hot water production for food,textile,dairy and leather industries. however,economic justification of such projects would be possible only on accomplishing an indigenous technology base. globally,this is a proven technology,but in pakistan there is hardly any development in this field. in this study,an effort has been made by designing and fabricating an experimental parabolic trough solar water heater by utilizing locally available materials and manufacturing capabilities. on achieving encouraging results,a solar boiler (steam generator) is proposed to be manufactured locally. © pakistan academy of sciences.