In CSP technology, what is the purpose of concentrating sunlight?

In CSP technology, what is the purpose of concentrating sunlight?

• A. To heat a working fluid to produce steam.
• B. To increase PV cell efficiency.
• C. To reflect heat back into the sun.
• D. To power lasers for communication.

Answer: (A)

Concentrating sunlight in CSP is all about creating high heat in a heat-transfer fluid so you can generate steam to drive a turbine. By focusing sunlight with mirrors or lenses, the fluid reaches high temperatures. That heat is then used to boil water or transfer energy to a steam loop, and the resulting steam turns a turbine connected to a generator, producing electricity. This thermal approach is what distinguishes CSP from photovoltaics, which convert light directly to electricity. It also isn’t about reflecting heat back into the sun or powering laser systems for communication.

Concentrating sunlight in CSP is all about creating high heat in a heat-transfer fluid so you can generate steam to drive a turbine. By focusing sunlight with mirrors or lenses, the fluid reaches high temperatures. That heat is then used to boil water or transfer energy to a steam loop, and the resulting steam turns a turbine connected to a generator, producing electricity. This thermal approach is what distinguishes CSP from photovoltaics, which convert light directly to electricity. It also isn’t about reflecting heat back into the sun or powering laser systems for communication.