The project aims to develop digital tools for CSP (preferably with storage capabilities) and Solar Thermal Plants to enhance the value of these technologies, not only for power systems but also from an electricity market perspective. By utilizing electricity market simulators and power forecasting systems that model traditional markets—such as day-ahead, intraday, and balancing markets—the project will assess the value of these technologies and propose new business models for their integration. These models will explore opportunities for CSP and Solar Thermal Plants to participate in balancing markets and provide ancillary services.


The role of potential partners would be to operate CSP or Solar Thermal power plants, which will serve as demonstration site for the development of the digital tools. Additionally, partners could contribute to
other relevant tasks, including supporting the adoption and dissemination of the tools developed within
the project.

Deadline for EOI: 24th January 2025
Deadline for submission of the call is 4th of February 2025.
Advantages and innovation
The project offers significant advantages due to the advanced development stage of the tools and simulators already available within the consortium. These tools have demonstrated proven effectiveness in various contexts and are backed by extensive expertise in power system operations and electricity market dynamics.

Each digital tool within the system will be developed and tested independently before being integrated into a unified control framework. This ensures their reliable standalone functionality. A key innovation lies in integrating these diverse tools and perspectives to quantify the added value of CSP and thermal power plants to the energy system.

The project also aims to demonstrate that these technologies can adopt business models that enhance their profitability through participation in electricity markets.

All tools will be combined into a user-friendly, scalable module, enabling non-expert users to operate the control system efficiently without requiring extensive technical knowledge. The project aims to achieve Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 8, demonstrating a near-commercial level of maturity.
Technical Specification or Expertise Sought
Type of partner: Industry, SME, R and D institution, or university involved in the operation of CSP or thermal power plants to join the consortium. The partnership is, currently to participate in the referred call, as a partner.

Framework program
Horizon Europe
Call title and identifier
HORIZON-CL5-2024-D3-02-01
Submission and evaluation scheme
Anticipated project budget
Coordinator required
No
Deadline for EoI
24/01/2025
Deadline of the call
04/02/2025