TcsmoltenSalt

CSP molten salt power tower for power generation

PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.default(config) TcsmoltenSalt

Load defaults for the configuration config. Available configurations are:

  • “MSPTAllEquityPartnershipFlip”

  • “MSPTLeveragedPartnershipFlip”

  • “MSPTMerchantPlant”

  • “MSPTNone”

  • “MSPTSaleLeaseback”

  • “MSPTSingleOwner”

Note

Some inputs do not have default values and may be assigned a value from the variable’s Required attribute. See variable attribute descriptions below.

PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.from_existing(data, optional config) TcsmoltenSalt

Share data with an existing PySAM class. If optional config is a valid configuration name, load the module’s defaults for that configuration.

PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.new() TcsmoltenSalt
PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.wrap(ssc_data_t) TcsmoltenSalt

Load data from a PySSC object.

Warning

Do not call PySSC.data_free on the ssc_data_t provided to wrap()

TcsmoltenSalt is a wrapper for the SSC compute module cmod_tcsmolten_salt.cpp

Functions

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt

This class contains all the variable information for running a simulation. Variables are grouped together in the subclasses as properties. If property assignments are the wrong type, an error is thrown.

assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from nested dictionary, except for Outputs

nested_dict = { 'Solar Resource': { var: val, ...}, ...}

execute(int verbosity) None

Execute simulation with verbosity level 0 (default) or 1

export() dict

Export attributes into nested dictionary

get_data_ptr() Pointer

Get ssc_data_t pointer

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from nested dictionary, except for Outputs. Unassigns all values in each Group then assigns from the input dict.

nested_dict = { 'Solar Resource': { var: val, ...}, ...}

unassign(name) None

Unassign a value in any of the variable groups.

value(name, optional value) None | float | dict | sequence | str

Get or set by name a value in any of the variable groups.

SolarResource Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.SolarResource
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

SolarResource_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

SolarResource_vals = { var: val, ...}

solar_resource_data

Weather resource data in memory

Required: False for configuration with default inputs. May be required if a variable dependent on its value changes. Example: For the Detailed PV - Single Owner configuration, only Subarray 1 is enabled in the configuration defaults, so Subarray 2 inputs would not be required; if Subarray 2 is enabled, then Subarray 2 inputs is required.

Type:

dict

solar_resource_file

Local weather file path

Constraints: LOCAL_FILE

Required: False for configuration with default inputs. May be required if a variable dependent on its value changes. Example: For the Detailed PV - Single Owner configuration, only Subarray 1 is enabled in the configuration defaults, so Subarray 2 inputs would not be required; if Subarray 2 is enabled, then Subarray 2 inputs is required.

Type:

str

SystemControl Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.SystemControl
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

SystemControl_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

SystemControl_vals = { var: val, ...}

F_wc

TOU array of fractions indicating wet cooling share for hybrid cooling

Required: Required if pc_config=0

Type:

sequence

ampl_data_dir

AMPL data file directory

Required: False. Automatically set to ‘’ if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

str

ampl_exec_call

System command to run AMPL code

Required: False. Automatically set to ‘ampl sdk_solution.run’ if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

str

aux_par

Aux heater, boiler parasitic [MWe/MWcap]

Required: True

Type:

float

aux_par_0

Aux heater, boiler parasitic - constant coefficient

Required: True

Type:

float

aux_par_1

Aux heater, boiler parasitic - linear coefficient

Required: True

Type:

float

aux_par_2

Aux heater, boiler parasitic - quadratic coefficient

Required: True

Type:

float

aux_par_f

Aux heater, boiler parasitic - multiplying fraction

Required: True

Type:

float

bop_par

Balance of plant parasitic power fraction [MWe/MWcap]

Required: True

Type:

float

bop_par_0

Balance of plant parasitic power fraction - const coeff

Required: True

Type:

float

bop_par_1

Balance of plant parasitic power fraction - linear coeff

Required: True

Type:

float

bop_par_2

Balance of plant parasitic power fraction - quadratic coeff

Required: True

Type:

float

bop_par_f

Balance of plant parasitic power fraction - mult frac

Required: True

Type:

float

can_cycle_use_standby

Can the cycle use standby operation?

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

disp_csu_cost_rel

Cycle startup cost [$/MWe-cycle/start]

Type:

float

disp_frequency

Frequency for dispatch optimization calculations [hour]

Required: Required if is_dispatch=1

Type:

float

disp_horizon

Time horizon for dispatch optimization [hour]

Required: Required if is_dispatch=1

Type:

float

disp_hsu_cost_rel

Heater startup cost [$/MWt/start]

Required: Required if is_dispatch=1&is_parallel_htr=1

Type:

float

disp_inventory_incentive

Dispatch storage terminal inventory incentive multiplier

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

disp_max_iter

Max number of dispatch optimization iterations

Required: Required if is_dispatch=1

Type:

float

disp_mip_gap

Dispatch optimization solution tolerance

Required: Required if is_dispatch=1

Type:

float

disp_pen_ramping

Dispatch cycle production change penalty [$/MWe-change]

Type:

float

disp_reporting

Dispatch optimization reporting level

Required: False. Automatically set to -1 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

disp_rsu_cost_rel

Receiver startup cost [$/MWt/start]

Type:

float

disp_spec_bb

Dispatch optimization B&B heuristic

Required: False. Automatically set to -1 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

disp_spec_presolve

Dispatch optimization presolve heuristic

Required: False. Automatically set to -1 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

disp_spec_scaling

Dispatch optimization scaling heuristic

Required: False. Automatically set to -1 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

disp_steps_per_hour

Time steps per hour for dispatch optimization calculations

Required: False. Automatically set to 1 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

disp_time_weighting

Dispatch optimization future time discounting factor

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.99 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

disp_timeout

Max dispatch optimization solve duration [s]

Required: Required if is_dispatch=1

Type:

float

disp_wlim_maxspec

Fixed design-point max net power to the grid (dispatch opt only)

Required: Required if is_wlim_design=1

Type:

float

dispatch_series

Time series dispatch factors

Type:

sequence

f_turb_tou_periods

Dispatch logic for turbine load fraction

Required: True

Type:

sequence

is_ampl_engine

Run dispatch optimization with external AMPL engine

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

is_dispatch

Allow dispatch optimization?

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

is_dispatch_series

Use time-series dispatch factors

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

is_parallel_htr

Does plant include a HTF heater parallel to solar field?

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

is_tod_pc_target_also_pc_max

Is the TOD target cycle heat input also the max cycle heat input?

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

is_wlim_design

Use fixed design-point net electricity generation limits (dispatch opt only)

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

is_wlim_series

Use time-series net electricity generation limits (dispatch opt only)

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

is_write_ampl_dat

Write AMPL data files for dispatch run

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

pb_fixed_par

Fixed parasitic load - runs at all times [MWe/MWcap]

Required: True

Type:

float

q_rec_heattrace

Receiver heat trace energy consumption during startup [kWe-hr]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

q_rec_standby

Receiver standby energy consumption [kWt]

Required: False. Automatically set to 9e99 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

sim_type

timeseries, 2: design only

Required: False. Automatically set to 1 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

Type:

1 (default)

time_start

Simulation start time [s]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

time_steps_per_hour

Number of simulation time steps per hour

Required: False. Automatically set to -1 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

time_stop

Simulation stop time [s]

Required: False. Automatically set to 31536000 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

timestep_load_fractions

Turbine load fraction for each timestep, alternative to block dispatch

Required: False for configuration with default inputs. May be required if a variable dependent on its value changes. Example: For the Detailed PV - Single Owner configuration, only Subarray 1 is enabled in the configuration defaults, so Subarray 2 inputs would not be required; if Subarray 2 is enabled, then Subarray 2 inputs is required.

Type:

sequence

vacuum_arrays

Allocate arrays for only the required number of steps

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

weekday_schedule

12x24 CSP operation Time-of-Use Weekday schedule

Required: True

Type:

sequence[sequence]

weekend_schedule

12x24 CSP operation Time-of-Use Weekend schedule

Required: True

Type:

sequence[sequence]

wlim_series

Time series net electicity generation limits (dispatch opt only) [kWe]

Required: Required if is_wlim_series=1

Type:

sequence

FinancialModel Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.FinancialModel
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

FinancialModel_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

FinancialModel_vals = { var: val, ...}

csp_financial_model

[1-8]

Constraints: INTEGER,MIN=0

Required: False. Automatically set to 1 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

SystemDesign Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.SystemDesign
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

SystemDesign_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

SystemDesign_vals = { var: val, ...}

P_ref

Reference output electric power at design condition [MW]

Required: True

Type:

float

T_htf_cold_des

Cold HTF inlet temperature at design conditions [C]

Required: True

Type:

float

T_htf_hot_des

Hot HTF outlet temperature at design conditions [C]

Required: True

Type:

float

design_eff

Power cycle efficiency at design [none]

Required: True

Type:

float

dni_des

Design-point DNI [W/m2]

Required: True

Type:

float

sf_excess

Heliostat field multiple

Required: False. Automatically set to 1.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

solarm

Solar multiple [-]

Required: True

Type:

float

tshours

Equivalent full-load thermal storage hours [hr]

Required: True

Type:

float

TowerAndReceiver Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.TowerAndReceiver
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

TowerAndReceiver_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

TowerAndReceiver_vals = { var: val, ...}

D_rec

The overall outer diameter of the receiver - in [m]

Required: True

Type:

float

Flow_type

see figure on SAM Receiver page

Required: True

Type:

float

Type:

Receiver flow pattern

N_panels

Number of individual panels on the receiver

Constraints: INTEGER

Required: True

Type:

float

W_dot_pb_pump_target

Target HTF pumping power loss through cycle primary heat exchanger [MWe]

Required: Required if is_calc_pb_pump_coef=1

Type:

float

W_dot_rec_target

Target pumping power loss through receiver (not including riser/downcomer) [MWe]

Required: Required if is_calc_od_tube=1

Type:

float

cav_rec_height

Cavity receiver height - in [m]

Required: Required if receiver_type=1

Type:

float

cav_rec_passive_abs

Cavity receiver passive surface solar absorptance

Required: Required if receiver_type=1

Type:

float

cav_rec_passive_eps

Cavity receiver passive surface thermal emissivity

Required: Required if receiver_type=1

Type:

float

cav_rec_span

Cavity receiver span angle [deg]

Required: Required if receiver_type=1

Type:

float

cav_rec_width

Cavity receiver aperture width - in [m]

Required: Required if receiver_type=1

Type:

float

crossover_shift

Number of panels shift in receiver crossover position

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

csp_pt_rec_max_oper_frac

Maximum receiver mass flow rate fraction

Required: True

Type:

float

d_tube_out

The outer diameter of an individual receiver tube [mm]

Required: True

Type:

float

delta_flux_hrs

Hourly frequency in flux map lookup

Required: False. Automatically set to 1 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

downc_tm_mult

Downcomer thermal mass multiplier

Required: False. Automatically set to 1.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

epsilon

The emissivity of the receiver surface coating

Required: True

Type:

float

eta_pump

Receiver HTF pump efficiency

Required: True

Type:

float

f_rec_min

Minimum receiver mass flow rate turn down fraction

Required: True

Type:

float

field_fl_props

User defined field fluid property data [-]

Required: True

Type:

sequence[sequence]

flux_max

Maximum allowable flux

Required: False. Automatically set to 1000 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

h_tower

Tower height - in [m]

Required: True

Type:

float

heat_trace_power

Riser/downcomer heat trace power during startup [kW/m]

Required: False. Automatically set to 500.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

hl_ffact

The heat loss factor (thermal loss fudge factor)

Required: True

Type:

float

is_calc_od_tube

use input d_tube_output, True: calc OD tube to achieve W_dot_rec_target

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

Type:

False (default)

is_calc_pb_pump_coef

use input pb_pump_coef, True: calc pb_pump_coef to achieve W_dot_pb_pump_target

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

Type:

False (default)

is_calc_sm

use input solarm, True: calc solar multiple to achieve q_dot_rec_des_target

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

Type:

False (default)

is_rec_enforce_min_startup

Always enforce minimum startup time

Required: False. Automatically set to 1 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

is_rec_model_trans

Formulate receiver model as transient?

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

is_rec_startup_from_T_soln

Begin receiver startup from solved temperature profiles?

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

is_rec_startup_trans

Formulate receiver startup model as transient?

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

mat_tube

Receiver tube material, 2=Stainless AISI316

Required: True

Type:

float

min_fill_time

Startup time delay for filling the receiver/piping [hr]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.1333 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

min_preheat_time

Minimum time required in preheat startup stage [hr]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

n_cav_rec_panels

Cavity receiver number of panels

Required: Required if receiver_type=1

Type:

float

n_flux_days

Number of days in flux map lookup

Required: False. Automatically set to 8 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

piping_length_const

Piping constant length [m]

Required: True

Type:

float

piping_length_mult

Piping length multiplier

Required: True

Type:

float

piping_loss_coefficient

Thermal loss per meter of piping [Wt/m2-K]

Type:

float

preheat_flux

Tube absorbed solar flux during preheat [kW/m2]

Required: False. Automatically set to 50.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

q_dot_rec_des_target

Target design receiver thermal power [MWe]

Required: Required if is_calc_sm=1

Type:

float

rec_absorptance

Receiver absorptance

Required: True

Type:

float

rec_clearsky_dni

User-defined clear-sky DNI [W/m2]

Required: Required if rec_clearsky_model=0

Type:

sequence

rec_clearsky_fraction

Weighting fraction on clear-sky DNI for receiver flow control

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

rec_clearsky_model

None = -1, User-defined data = 0, Meinel = 1; Hottel = 2; Allen = 3; Moon = 4

Required: False. Automatically set to -1 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

Type:

Clearsky model

rec_height

Receiver height - in [m]

Required: True

Type:

float

rec_hl_perm2

Receiver design heatloss [kW/m2]

Required: True

Type:

float

rec_htf

Receiver HTF, 17=Salt (60% NaNO3, 40% KNO3) 10=Salt (46.5% LiF 11.5% NaF 42% KF) 50=Lookup tables

Required: True

Type:

float

rec_qf_delay

Energy-based receiver startup delay (fraction of rated thermal power)

Required: True

Type:

float

rec_su_delay

Fixed startup delay time for the receiver [hr]

Required: True

Type:

float

rec_tm_mult

Receiver thermal mass multiplier

Required: False. Automatically set to 1.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

riser_tm_mult

Riser thermal mass multiplier

Required: False. Automatically set to 1.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

startup_ramp_time

Time required to reach full flux during receiver startup [hr]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.1333 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

startup_target_Tdiff

Target HTF T at end of startup - steady state hot HTF temperature [C]

Required: False. Automatically set to -5.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

th_riser

Riser or downcomer tube wall thickness [mm]

Required: False. Automatically set to 15.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

th_tube

The wall thickness of a single receiver tube [mm]

Required: True

Type:

float

u_riser

Design point HTF velocity in riser [m/s]

Required: False. Automatically set to 4.0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

HeliostatField Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.HeliostatField
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

HeliostatField_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

HeliostatField_vals = { var: val, ...}

A_sf_in

Solar field area [m^2]

Required: field_model_type>3

Type:

float

N_hel

Number of heliostats - in

Required: field_model_type>3

Type:

float

c_atm_0

Attenuation coefficient 0

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.006789 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

c_atm_1

Attenuation coefficient 1

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.1046 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

c_atm_2

Attenuation coefficient 2

Required: False. Automatically set to -0.0107 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

c_atm_3

Attenuation coefficient 3

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.002845 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

cant_type

Heliostat canting method

Required: True

Type:

float

check_max_flux

Check max flux at design point

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

csp_pt_sf_fixed_land_area

Fixed land area [acre]

Required: True

Type:

float

csp_pt_sf_land_overhead_factor

Land overhead factor

Required: True

Type:

float

dens_mirror

Ratio of heliostat reflective area to profile

Required: field_model_type<4

Type:

float

eta_map

Field efficiency array

Required: field_model_type>2

Type:

sequence[sequence]

eta_map_aod_format

Use 3D AOD format field efficiency array

Info: heliostat

Required: field_model_type>2

Type:

float

field_model_type

0=design field and tower/receiver geometry, 1=design field, 2=user specified field, 3=user flux and eta map, pass heliostat_positions to SolarPILOT for layout, 4=user flux and eta maps, no SolarPILOT, input A_sf_in, total_land_area_before_rad_cooling_in, and N_hel

Required: True

Type:

float

flux_maps

Flux map intensities

Required: field_model_type>2

Type:

sequence[sequence]

focus_type

Heliostat focus method

Required: True

Type:

float

hel_stow_deploy

Stow/deploy elevation angle [deg]

Required: True

Type:

float

helio_active_fraction

Heliostat active fraction

Required: True

Type:

float

helio_aim_points

Heliostat aim point table [m]

Required: False for configuration with default inputs. May be required if a variable dependent on its value changes. Example: For the Detailed PV - Single Owner configuration, only Subarray 1 is enabled in the configuration defaults, so Subarray 2 inputs would not be required; if Subarray 2 is enabled, then Subarray 2 inputs is required.

Type:

sequence[sequence]

helio_height

Heliostat height [m]

Required: field_model_type<4

Type:

float

helio_optical_error_mrad

Heliostat optical error [mrad]

Required: True

Type:

float

helio_positions

Heliostat position table - in

Required: Required if field_model_type=2|field_model_type=3

Type:

sequence[sequence]

helio_reflectance

Heliostat reflectance

Required: True

Type:

float

helio_width

Heliostat width [m]

Required: field_model_type<4

Type:

float

interp_beta

Interpolation beta coef. [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to 1.99 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

interp_nug

Interpolation nugget [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

land_bound_list

Land boundary table listing

Required: False for configuration with default inputs. May be required if a variable dependent on its value changes. Example: For the Detailed PV - Single Owner configuration, only Subarray 1 is enabled in the configuration defaults, so Subarray 2 inputs would not be required; if Subarray 2 is enabled, then Subarray 2 inputs is required.

Type:

sequence

land_bound_table

Land boundary table [m]

Required: False for configuration with default inputs. May be required if a variable dependent on its value changes. Example: For the Detailed PV - Single Owner configuration, only Subarray 1 is enabled in the configuration defaults, so Subarray 2 inputs would not be required; if Subarray 2 is enabled, then Subarray 2 inputs is required.

Type:

sequence[sequence]

land_max

Land max boundary [-ORm]

Required: False. Automatically set to 7.5 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

land_min

Land min boundary [-ORm]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.75 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

n_facet_x

Number of heliostat facets - X

Required: True

Type:

float

n_facet_y

Number of heliostat facets - Y

Required: True

Type:

float

opt_algorithm

Optimization algorithm

Required: False. Automatically set to 1 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

opt_conv_tol

Optimization convergence tolerance

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.001 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

opt_flux_penalty

Optimization flux overage penalty

Required: True

Type:

float

opt_init_step

Optimization initial step size

Required: False. Automatically set to 0.05 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

opt_max_iter

Max number iteration steps

Required: False. Automatically set to 200 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

p_start

Heliostat startup energy [kWe-hr]

Required: True

Type:

float

p_track

Heliostat tracking energy [kWe]

Required: True

Type:

float

receiver_type

external (default), 1; cavity

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

Type:

0

total_land_area_before_rad_cooling_in

Total land area not including radiative cooling - in [acre]

Required: field_model_type>3

Type:

float

v_wind_max

Heliostat max wind velocity [m/s]

Required: True

Type:

float

washing_frequency

Mirror washing frequency [none]

Required: True

Type:

float

water_usage_per_wash

Water usage per wash [L/m2_aper]

Required: True

Type:

float

ParallelHeater Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.ParallelHeater
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

ParallelHeater_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

ParallelHeater_vals = { var: val, ...}

f_q_dot_des_allowable_su

Fraction of design power allowed during startup [-]

Required: Required if is_parallel_htr=1

Type:

float

f_q_dot_heater_min

Minimum allowable heater output as fraction of design

Required: Required if is_parallel_htr=1

Type:

float

heater_efficiency

Heater electric to thermal efficiency [%]

Required: Required if is_parallel_htr=1

Type:

float

heater_mult

Heater multiple relative to design cycle thermal power [-]

Required: Required if is_parallel_htr=1

Type:

float

hrs_startup_at_max_rate

Duration of startup at max startup power [hr]

Required: Required if is_parallel_htr=1

Type:

float

SystemCosts Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.SystemCosts
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

SystemCosts_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

SystemCosts_vals = { var: val, ...}

allow_heater_no_dispatch_opt

Allow heater with no dispatch optimization? SAM UI relies on cmod default

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

bop_spec_cost

BOS specific cost [$/kWe]

Required: True

Type:

float

contingency_rate

Contingency for cost overrun [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

cost_sf_fixed

Solar field fixed cost [$]

Required: True

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_epc_fixed

EPC fixed [$]

Required: True

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_epc_per_acre

EPC cost per acre [$/acre]

Required: True

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_epc_per_watt

EPC cost per watt [$/W]

Required: True

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_epc_percent

EPC cost percent of direct [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_plm_fixed

PLM fixed [$]

Required: True

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_plm_per_watt

PLM cost per watt [$/W]

Required: True

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_plm_percent

PLM cost percent of direct [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

fossil_spec_cost

Fossil system specific cost [$/kWe]

Required: True

Type:

float

heater_spec_cost

Heater specific cost [$/kWht]

Required: Required if is_parallel_htr=1

Type:

float

heliostat_spec_cost

Heliostat field cost [$/m2]

Required: True

Type:

float

land_spec_cost

Total land area cost [$/acre]

Required: True

Type:

float

plant_spec_cost

Power cycle specific cost [$/kWe]

Required: True

Type:

float

rec_cost_exp

Receiver cost scaling exponent

Required: True

Type:

float

rec_ref_area

Receiver reference area for cost scale

Required: True

Type:

float

rec_ref_cost

Receiver reference cost [$]

Required: True

Type:

float

sales_tax_frac

Percent of cost to which sales tax applies [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

site_spec_cost

Site improvement cost [$/m2]

Required: True

Type:

float

tes_spec_cost

Thermal energy storage cost [$/kWht]

Required: True

Type:

float

tower_exp

Tower cost scaling exponent

Required: True

Type:

float

tower_fixed_cost

Tower fixed cost [$]

Required: True

Type:

float

ThermalStorage Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.ThermalStorage
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

ThermalStorage_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

ThermalStorage_vals = { var: val, ...}

cold_tank_Thtr

Minimum allowable cold tank HTF temperature [C]

Required: True

Type:

float

cold_tank_max_heat

Rated heater capacity for cold tank heating [MW]

Required: True

Type:

float

h_tank

Total height of tank (height of HTF when tank is full) [m]

Required: True

Type:

float

h_tank_min

Minimum allowable HTF height in storage tank [m]

Required: True

Type:

float

hot_tank_Thtr

Minimum allowable hot tank HTF temperature [C]

Required: True

Type:

float

hot_tank_max_heat

Rated heater capacity for hot tank heating [MW]

Required: True

Type:

float

tank_pairs

Number of equivalent tank pairs

Constraints: INTEGER

Required: True

Type:

float

tanks_in_parallel

Tanks are in parallel, not in series, with solar field [-]

Required: True

Type:

float

tes_init_hot_htf_percent

Initial fraction of available volume that is hot [%]

Type:

float

u_tank

Loss coefficient from the tank [W/m2-K]

Required: True

Type:

float

RADCOOL Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.RADCOOL
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

RADCOOL_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

RADCOOL_vals = { var: val, ...}

D_rad_tubes

Inner diameter of tubes in radiator panel [m]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

L_rad

Length of radiator panel row [m]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

L_rad_sections

Length of individual radiator panel [m]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

T_ctes_cold_design

Design value of cooled water to power block [C]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

T_ctes_cold_ini

Initial value of cold tank [C]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

T_ctes_warm_design

Design value of warm water returning from power block [C]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

T_ctes_warm_ini

Initial value of warm tank [C]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

W_rad_tubes

Center-to-center distance between tubes in radiator panel [m]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

ctes_cost

Cost of cold storage construction [$/L]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

ctes_field_fl

Fluid in radiator field. 3=liquid water. Other = Glycol. [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to 3 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

ctes_tankpairs

Number of equivalent tank pairs [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

ctes_tshours

Equivalent full load storage hours [hr]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

ctes_type

Type of cold storage (2=two tank, 3= three node) [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

epsilon_radHX

Effectiveness of HX between radiative field and cold storage [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to .8 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

epsilon_radbot

Emmissivity of top of radiator panel bottom (facing ground) [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to .07 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

epsilon_radgrnd

Emmissivity of ground underneath radiator panel [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to .90 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

epsilon_radtop

Emmissivity of top of radiator panel [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to .95 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

f_ctes_warm_ini

Initial fraction of avail. volume that is warm [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

h_ctes_tank

Total height of cold storage tank when full [m]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

h_ctes_tank_min

Minimum allowable water height in storage tank [m]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

k_panel

Thermal conductivity of radiator panel material [W/m-K]

Required: False. Automatically set to 235 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

m_dot_radpanel

Mass flow rate through single radiator panel [kg/sec]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

n_rad_tubes

Number of parallel tubes in single radiator panel [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

rad_multiplier

Ratio of radiator field area to solar aperature area [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

rad_pressuredrop

Average pressure drop through a radiative panel & distribution [kPa]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

radfluid_vol_ratio

Ratio of fluid in distribution to fluid in panels [-]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

radiator_fluidcost

Cost of circulating fluid in radiative panels [$/L]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

radiator_installcost

Installation cost of radiative panels [$/m^2]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

radiator_unitcost

Cost of radiative panels [$/m^2]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

th_rad_panel

Thickness of radiator panel [m]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

u_ctes_tank

Loss coefficient from cold storage tank [W/m2-K]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

PowerCycle Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.PowerCycle
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

PowerCycle_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

PowerCycle_vals = { var: val, ...}

cycle_cutoff_frac

Minimum turbine operation fraction before shutdown

Required: True

Type:

float

cycle_max_frac

Maximum turbine over design operation fraction

Required: True

Type:

float

pb_pump_coef

Pumping power to move 1kg of HTF through PB loop [kW/kg]

Required: True

Type:

float

pc_config

PC configuration 0=Steam Rankine (224), 1=user defined

Constraints: INTEGER

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

q_sby_frac

Fraction of thermal power required for standby

Required: True

Type:

float

startup_frac

Fraction of design thermal power needed for startup [none]

Required: True

Type:

float

startup_time

Time needed for power block startup [hr]

Required: True

Type:

float

RankineCycle Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.RankineCycle
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

RankineCycle_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

RankineCycle_vals = { var: val, ...}

CT

1=evaporative, 2=air, 3=hybrid

Required: Required if pc_config=0

Type:

float

Type:

Condensor type

P_cond_min

Minimum condenser pressure [inHg]

Required: Required if pc_config=0

Type:

float

P_cond_ratio

Condenser pressure ratio

Required: Required if pc_config=0

Type:

float

T_ITD_des

ITD at design for dry system [C]

Required: Required if pc_config=0

Type:

float

T_amb_des

Reference ambient temperature at design point [C]

Required: Required if pc_config=0

Type:

float

T_approach

Cooling tower approach temperature [C]

Required: Required if pc_config=0

Type:

float

dT_cw_ref

Reference condenser cooling water inlet/outlet temperature difference [C]

Required: Required if pc_config=0

Type:

float

n_pl_inc

Number of part-load increments for the heat rejection system [none]

Constraints: INTEGER

Required: Required if pc_config=0

Type:

float

pb_bd_frac

Power block blowdown steam fraction

Required: Required if pc_config=0

Type:

float

tech_type

Turbine inlet pressure control 1=Fixed, 3=Sliding

Required: Required if pc_config=0

Type:

float

UserDefinedPowerCycle Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.UserDefinedPowerCycle
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

UserDefinedPowerCycle_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

UserDefinedPowerCycle_vals = { var: val, ...}

ud_f_W_dot_cool_des

Percent of user-defined power cycle design gross output consumed by cooling [%]

Required: Required if pc_config=1

Type:

float

ud_ind_od

Off design user-defined power cycle performance as function of T_htf, m_dot_htf [ND], and T_amb

Required: Required if pc_config=1

Type:

sequence[sequence]

ud_is_sco2_regr

default, base udpc interpolation, True: use sco2 heuristic regression

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

Type:

False

ud_m_dot_water_cool_des

Mass flow rate of water required at user-defined power cycle design point [kg/s]

Required: Required if pc_config=1

Type:

float

use_net_cycle_output_as_capacity

default, use net calculation including system parasitics, True: for UDPC only, set as cycle output less cooling power

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

Type:

False

TimeOfDeliveryFactors Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.TimeOfDeliveryFactors
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

TimeOfDeliveryFactors_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

TimeOfDeliveryFactors_vals = { var: val, ...}

dispatch_factors_ts

Dispatch payment factor array

Required: Required if ppa_multiplier_model=1&csp_financial_model<5&is_dispatch=1&sim_type=1

Type:

sequence

dispatch_sched_weekday

PPA pricing weekday schedule, 12x24

Required: Required if ppa_multiplier_model=0&csp_financial_model<5&is_dispatch=1&sim_type=1

Type:

sequence[sequence]

dispatch_sched_weekend

PPA pricing weekend schedule, 12x24

Required: Required if ppa_multiplier_model=0&csp_financial_model<5&is_dispatch=1&sim_type=1

Type:

sequence[sequence]

dispatch_tod_factors

TOD factors for periods 1 through 9

Info: We added this array input after SAM 2022.12.21 to replace the functionality of former single value inputs dispatch_factor1 through dispatch_factor9

Required: Required if ppa_multiplier_model=0&csp_financial_model<5&is_dispatch=1&sim_type=1

Type:

sequence

ppa_multiplier_model

dispatch factors dispatch_factorX, 1: hourly multipliers dispatch_factors_ts [0/1]

Options: 0=diurnal,1=timestep

Constraints: INTEGER,MIN=0

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

Type:

PPA multiplier model 0

FinancialSolutionMode Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.FinancialSolutionMode
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

FinancialSolutionMode_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

FinancialSolutionMode_vals = { var: val, ...}

ppa_soln_mode

PPA solution mode (0=Specify IRR target, 1=Specify PPA price)

Required: Required if sim_type=1&ppa_multiplier_model=0&csp_financial_model<5&is_dispatch=1&sim_type=1

Type:

float

ElectricityRates Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.ElectricityRates
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

ElectricityRates_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

ElectricityRates_vals = { var: val, ...}

en_electricity_rates

Enable electricity rates for grid purchase [0/1]

Required: False. Automatically set to 0 if not assigned explicitly or loaded from defaults.

Type:

float

Revenue Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.Revenue
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

Revenue_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

Revenue_vals = { var: val, ...}

mp_energy_market_revenue

Energy market revenue input

Info: Lifetime x 2[Cleared Capacity(MW),Price($/MWh)]

Required: Required if csp_financial_model=6&is_dispatch=1&sim_type=1

Type:

sequence[sequence]

ppa_price_input

PPA prices - yearly [$/kWh]

Required: Required if ppa_multiplier_model=0&csp_financial_model<5&is_dispatch=1&sim_type=1

Type:

sequence

FinancialParameters Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.FinancialParameters
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

FinancialParameters_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

FinancialParameters_vals = { var: val, ...}

const_per_interest_rate1

Interest rate, loan 1 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_interest_rate2

Interest rate, loan 2 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_interest_rate3

Interest rate, loan 3 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_interest_rate4

Interest rate, loan 4 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_interest_rate5

Interest rate, loan 5 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_months1

Months prior to operation, loan 1

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_months2

Months prior to operation, loan 2

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_months3

Months prior to operation, loan 3

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_months4

Months prior to operation, loan 4

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_months5

Months prior to operation, loan 5

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_percent1

Percent of total installed cost, loan 1 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_percent2

Percent of total installed cost, loan 2 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_percent3

Percent of total installed cost, loan 3 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_percent4

Percent of total installed cost, loan 4 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_percent5

Percent of total installed cost, loan 5 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_upfront_rate1

Upfront fee on principal, loan 1 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_upfront_rate2

Upfront fee on principal, loan 2 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_upfront_rate3

Upfront fee on principal, loan 3 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_upfront_rate4

Upfront fee on principal, loan 4 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

const_per_upfront_rate5

Upfront fee on principal, loan 5 [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

sales_tax_rate

Sales tax rate [%]

Required: True

Type:

float

Deprecated Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.Deprecated
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

Deprecated_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

Deprecated_vals = { var: val, ...}

P_boil

Boiler operating pressure [bar]

Type:

float

csp_pt_tes_init_hot_htf_percent

Initial fraction of available volume that is hot [%]

Type:

float

disp_csu_cost

Cycle startup cost [$]

Type:

float

disp_pen_delta_w

Dispatch cycle production change penalty [$/kWe-change]

Type:

float

disp_rsu_cost

Receiver startup cost [$]

Type:

float

piping_loss

Thermal loss per meter of piping [Wt/m]

Type:

float

AdjustmentFactors Group

class PySAM.AdjustmentFactors.AdjustmentFactors
assign() None

Assign attributes from dictionary

export() Dict

Export attributes into dictionary

constant

AC Constant loss adjustment [%]

dc_constant

DC Constant loss adjustment [%]

dc_en_hourly

Enable DC hourly-based adjustment factors [0/1]

dc_en_periods

Enable DC period-based adjustment factors [0/1]

dc_en_timeindex

Enable DC lfetime adjustment factors [0/1]

dc_hourly

DC Hourly Adjustment Factors [%]

dc_periods

DC Period-based Adjustment Factors [%]

dc_timeindex

DC Lifetime Adjustment Factors [%]

en_hourly

Enable AC hourly-based adjustment factors [0/1]

en_periods

Enable AC period-based adjustment factors [0/1]

en_timeindex

Enable AC lfetime adjustment factors [0/1]

hourly

AC Hourly Adjustment Factors [%]

periods

AC Period-based Adjustment Factors [%]

sf_constant

DC Constant loss adjustment [%]

sf_en_hourly

Enable SF hourly-based adjustment factors [0/1]

sf_en_periods

Enable SF period-based adjustment factors [0/1]

sf_en_timeindex

Enable SF lfetime adjustment factors [0/1]

sf_hourly

SF Hourly Adjustment Factors [%]

sf_periods

SF Period-based Adjustment Factors [%]

sf_timeindex

SF Lifetime Adjustment Factors [%]

timeindex

AC Lifetime Adjustment Factors [%]

Outputs Group

class PySAM.TcsmoltenSalt.TcsmoltenSalt.Outputs
assign(dict) None

Assign attributes from dictionary, overwriting but not removing values.

Outputs_vals = { var: val, ...}

export() dict

Export attributes into dictionary.

replace(dict) None

Replace attributes from dictionary, unassigning values not present in input dict.

Outputs_vals = { var: val, ...}

A_radfield

Radiator field surface area [m^2]

Type:

float

A_rec

Receiver area - planar [m2]

Type:

float

A_sf

Solar field area [m^2]

Type:

float

D_rec_calc

The overall outer diameter of the receiver - out [m]

Type:

float

E_heater_su_des

Heater startup energy [MWt-hr]

Type:

float

L_tower_piping_calc

Tower piping length [m]

Type:

float

N_hel_calc

Number of heliostats - out

Type:

float

P_cond

PC condensing presssure [Pa]

Type:

sequence

P_cond_iter_err

PC condenser presure iteration error

Type:

sequence

P_cooling_tower_tot

Parasitic power condenser operation [MWe]

Type:

sequence

P_cycle

PC electrical power output, gross [MWe]

Type:

sequence

P_fixed

Parasitic power fixed load [MWe]

Type:

sequence

P_out_net

Total electric power to grid [MWe]

Type:

sequence

P_plant_balance_tot

Parasitic power generation-dependent load [MWe]

Type:

sequence

P_rec_heattrace

Receiver heat trace parasitic load [MWe]

Type:

sequence

P_tower_pump

Receiver and tower HTF pumping power [MWe]

Type:

sequence

Q_dot_HTF_ND_des_calc

UDPC calculated normalized heat input at design

Type:

float

Q_tes_des

TES design capacity [MWt-hr]

Type:

float

Q_thermal

Receiver thermal power to HTF less piping loss [MWt]

Type:

sequence

Q_thermal_ss

Receiver thermal power to HTF less piping loss (steady state) [MWt]

Type:

sequence

Q_thermal_ss_csky

Receiver thermal power to HTF less piping loss under clear-sky conditions (steady state) [MWt]

Type:

sequence

T_amb_high_calc

UDPC high level ambient temperature [C]

Type:

float

T_amb_low_calc

UDPC low level ambient temperature [C]

Type:

float

T_amb_ref_calc

UDPC reference ambient temperature [C]

Type:

float

T_cold

Cold storage cold temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

T_cond_out

PC condenser water outlet temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

T_htf_heater_in

Parallel heater HTF inlet temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

T_htf_heater_out

Parallel heater HTF outlet temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

T_htf_high_calc

UDPC high level HTF temperature [C]

Type:

float

T_htf_low_calc

UDPC low level HTF temperature [C]

Type:

float

T_htf_ref_calc

UDPC reference HTF temperature [C]

Type:

float

T_panel_out_max

Receiver panel maximum HTF outlet temperature during timestep [C]

Type:

sequence

T_pc_in

PC HTF inlet temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

T_pc_out

PC HTF outlet temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

T_rad_out

Radiator outlet temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

T_rec_in

Receiver HTF inlet temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

T_rec_out

Receiver HTF outlet temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

T_rec_out_end

Receiver HTF outlet temperature at end of timestep [C]

Type:

sequence

T_rec_out_max

Receiver maximum HTF outlet temperature during timestep [C]

Type:

sequence

T_tes_cold

TES cold temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

T_tes_hot

TES hot temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

T_wall_downcomer

Receiver downcomer wall temperature at end of timestep [C]

Type:

sequence

T_wall_rec_inlet

Receiver inlet panel wall temperature at end of timestep [C]

Type:

sequence

T_wall_rec_outlet

Receiver outlet panel wall temperature at end of timestep [C]

Type:

sequence

T_wall_riser

Receiver riser wall temperature at end of timestep [C]

Type:

sequence

T_warm

Cold storage warm tank temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

V_tes_htf_avail_des

TES volume of HTF available for heat transfer [m3]

Type:

float

V_tes_htf_total_des

TES total HTF volume [m3]

Type:

float

W_dot_bop_design

BOP parasitics at design [MWe]

Type:

float

W_dot_col_tracking_des

Collector tracking power at design [MWe]

Type:

float

W_dot_cooling_ND_des_calc

UPPC calculated normalized cooling power at design

Type:

float

W_dot_cycle_cooling_des

PC cooling power at design [MWe]

Type:

float

W_dot_cycle_pump_des

PC HTF pump power at design [MWe]

Type:

float

W_dot_fixed

Fixed parasitic at design [MWe]

Type:

float

W_dot_gross_ND_des_calc

UDPC calculated normalized gross power at design

Type:

float

W_dot_heater

Parallel heater electricity consumption [MWe]

Type:

sequence

W_dot_heater_des

Heater electricity consumption at design [MWe]

Type:

float

W_dot_rec_pump_des

Receiver estimated pump power at design [MWe]

Type:

float

W_dot_rec_pump_rec_share_des

Receiver estimated pump power due to rec tubes at design [MWe]

Type:

float

W_dot_rec_pump_tower_share_des

Receiver estimated pump power due to tower height at design [MWe]

Type:

float

all_hours_electricity_sales

Electricity sales [$]

Type:

float

all_hours_revenue_fraction

Fraction of potential annual revenue (based on system capacity) [-]

Type:

float

annual_E_tower_pump

Annual tower pumping power [MWe-hr]

Type:

float

annual_W_cooling_tower

Total of condenser operation parasitics [kWhe]

Type:

float

annual_W_cycle_gross

Electrical source - power cycle gross output [kWhe]

Type:

float

annual_energy

Annual total electric power to grid [kWhe]

Type:

float

annual_energy_distribution_time

Annual energy production as function of time [kW]

Type:

sequence[sequence]

annual_eta_rec_th

Annual receiver thermal efficiency ignoring rec reflective loss

Type:

float

annual_eta_rec_th_incl_refl

Annual receiver thermal efficiency including reflective loss

Type:

float

annual_q_defocus_est

Annual defocus loss estimate [MWt-hr]

Type:

float

annual_q_piping_loss

Annual tower piping losses [MWt-hr]

Type:

float

annual_q_rec_htf

Annual receiver power delivered to HTF [MWt-hr]

Type:

float

annual_q_rec_inc

Annual receiver incident thermal power after reflective and defocus losses [MWt-hr]

Type:

float

annual_q_rec_loss

Annual receiver convective and radiative losses [MWt-hr]

Type:

float

annual_q_rec_startup

Annual receiver startup energy [MWt-hr]

Type:

float

annual_total_water_use

Total annual water usage, cycle + mirror washing [m3]

Type:

float

average_attenuation

Average solar field attenuation [%]

Type:

float

avg_suboptimal_rel_mip_gap

Average suboptimal relative MIP gap [%]

Type:

float

beam

Resource beam normal irradiance [W/m2]

Type:

sequence

capacity_factor

Capacity factor [%]

Type:

float

capacity_factor_highest_1000_ppas

Capacity factor at 1000 highest ppa timesteps [-]

Type:

float

capacity_factor_highest_2000_ppas

Capacity factor at 2000 highest ppa timesteps [-]

Type:

float

capacity_factor_warmest_100_Tambs

Capacity factor at 100 warmest ambient temperatures [-]

Type:

float

cav_panel_width

Cavity panel width [m]

Type:

float

cav_radius

Cavity radius [m]

Type:

float

cav_rec_area

Cavity receiver area [m2]

Type:

float

cav_rec_height_calc

Cavity receiver height - out [m]

Type:

float

cav_rec_width_calc

Cavity receiver aperture width - out [m]

Type:

float

clearsky

Predicted clear-sky beam normal irradiance [W/m2]

Type:

sequence

const_per_interest1

Interest cost, loan 1 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_interest2

Interest cost, loan 2 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_interest3

Interest cost, loan 3 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_interest4

Interest cost, loan 4 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_interest5

Interest cost, loan 5 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_interest_total

Total interest costs, all loans [$]

Type:

float

const_per_percent_total

Total percent of installed costs, all loans [%]

Type:

float

const_per_principal1

Principal, loan 1 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_principal2

Principal, loan 2 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_principal3

Principal, loan 3 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_principal4

Principal, loan 4 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_principal5

Principal, loan 5 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_principal_total

Total principal, all loans [$]

Type:

float

const_per_total1

Total financing cost, loan 1 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_total2

Total financing cost, loan 2 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_total3

Total financing cost, loan 3 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_total4

Total financing cost, loan 4 [$]

Type:

float

const_per_total5

Total financing cost, loan 5 [$]

Type:

float

construction_financing_cost

Total construction financing cost [$]

Type:

float

conversion_factor

Gross to net conversion factor [%]

Type:

float

cp_battery_nameplate

Battery nameplate [MWe]

Type:

float

cp_system_nameplate

System capacity for capacity payments [MWe]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_bop

BOP cost [$]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_contingency

Contingency cost [$]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_epc_total

EPC and owner cost [$]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_fossil

Fossil backup cost [$]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_heliostats

Heliostat cost [$]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_installed_per_capacity

Estimated installed cost per cap [$]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_plm_total

Total land cost [$]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_power_block

Power cycle cost [$]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_rad_field

Radiative field cost$

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_rad_fluid

Radiative fluid cost$

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_rad_storage

Cold storage cost$

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_receiver

Receiver cost [$]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_sales_tax_total

Sales tax cost [$]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_site_improvements

Site improvement cost [$]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_storage

TES cost [$]

Type:

float

csp_pt_cost_tower

Tower cost [$]

Type:

float

cycle_htf_pump_power

Cycle HTF pump power [MWe]

Type:

sequence

d_tank_tes

TES tank diameter [m]

Type:

float

defocus

Field optical focus fraction

Type:

sequence

dens_store_htf_at_T_ave

TES density of HTF at avg temps [kg/m3]

Type:

float

disp_iter_ann

Annual sum of dispatch solver iterations

Type:

float

disp_obj_relax

Dispatch objective function - relaxed max

Type:

sequence

disp_objective

Dispatch objective function value

Type:

sequence

disp_objective_ann

Annual sum of dispatch objective function value

Type:

float

disp_pceff_expected

Dispatch expected power cycle efficiency adj.

Type:

sequence

disp_presolve_nconstr

Dispatch number of constraints in problem

Type:

sequence

disp_presolve_nconstr_ann

Annual sum of dispatch problem constraint count

Type:

float

disp_presolve_nvar

Dispatch number of variables in problem

Type:

sequence

disp_presolve_nvar_ann

Annual sum of dispatch problem variable count

Type:

float

disp_qpbsu_expected

Dispatch expected power cycle startup energy [MWht]

Type:

sequence

disp_qsf_expected

Dispatch expected solar field available energy [MWt]

Type:

sequence

disp_qsfprod_expected

Dispatch expected solar field generation [MWt]

Type:

sequence

disp_qsfsu_expected

Dispatch expected solar field startup enegy [MWt]

Type:

sequence

disp_rel_mip_gap

Dispatch relative MIP gap

Type:

sequence

disp_rev_expected

Dispatch expected revenue factor

Type:

sequence

disp_solve_iter

Dispatch iterations count

Type:

sequence

disp_solve_state

Dispatch solver state

Type:

sequence

disp_solve_state_ann

Annual sum of dispatch solve state

Type:

float

disp_solve_time

Dispatch solver time [sec]

Type:

sequence

disp_solve_time_ann

Annual sum of dispatch solver time

Type:

float

disp_subopt_flag

Dispatch suboptimal solution flag

Type:

sequence

disp_tes_expected

Dispatch expected TES charge level [MWht]

Type:

sequence

disp_thermeff_expected

Dispatch expected SF thermal efficiency adj.

Type:

sequence

disp_wpb_expected

Dispatch expected power generation [MWe]

Type:

sequence

e_ch_tes

TES charge state [MWht]

Type:

sequence

eta

PC efficiency, gross

Type:

sequence

eta_field

Field optical efficiency

Type:

sequence

eta_map_out

Solar field optical efficiencies

Type:

sequence[sequence]

eta_rec_thermal_des

Receiver estimated thermal efficiency at design

Type:

float

eta_therm

Receiver thermal efficiency

Type:

sequence

ext_rec_area

External receiver area - out [m2]

Type:

float

ext_rec_aspect

External receiver aspect ratio - out

Type:

float

flux_maps_for_import

Flux map for import

Type:

sequence[sequence]

flux_maps_out

Flux map intensities

Type:

sequence[sequence]

gen

Total electric power to grid with available derate [kWe]

Type:

sequence

h_rec_input_to_cost_model

Receiver height for cost model selected from receiver type [m]

Type:

float

h_tower_calc

Tower height - out [m]

Type:

float

heater_cost

Heater cost [$]

Type:

float

helio_positions_calc

Heliostat position table - out

Type:

sequence[sequence]

heliostat_area

Active area of heliostat [m^2]

Type:

float

hot_hours_electricity_sales

Electricity sales during hours hotter than 33 C [$]

Type:

float

hot_hours_revenue_fraction

Fraction of potential revenue (based on system capacity) earned during hours hotter than 33 C [-]

Type:

float

is_PAR_HTR_allowed

Is parallel electric heater operation allowed

Type:

sequence

is_pc_sb_allowed

Is power cycle standby allowed

Type:

sequence

is_pc_su_allowed

Is power cycle startup allowed

Type:

sequence

is_rec_su_allowed

Is receiver startup allowed

Type:

sequence

kwh_per_kw

First year kWh/kW [kWh/kW]

Type:

float

land_area_base_calc

Land area occupied by heliostats [acre]

Type:

float

land_max_abs

Max distance from tower to heliostat [m]

Type:

float

land_min_abs

Min distance from tower to heliostat [m]

Type:

float

m_cold

Cold storage cold tank mass [kg]

Type:

sequence

m_dot_balance

Relative mass flow balance error

Type:

sequence

m_dot_cr_to_tes_hot

field to hot TES [kg/s]

Type:

sequence

Type:

Mass flow

m_dot_cycle_to_field

cycle to field [kg/s]

Type:

sequence

Type:

Mass flow

m_dot_field_to_cycle

field to cycle [kg/s]

Type:

sequence

Type:

Mass flow

m_dot_htf_ND_high_calc

UDPC high level normalized mass flow rate

Type:

float

m_dot_htf_ND_low_calc

UDPC low level normalized mass flow rate

Type:

float

m_dot_htf_ND_ref_calc

UDPC reference normalized mass flow rate

Type:

float

m_dot_htf_cycle_des

PC HTF mass flow rate at design [kg/s]

Type:

float

m_dot_htf_heater

Parallel heater HTF mass flow rate [kg/s]

Type:

sequence

m_dot_htf_rec_des

Receiver HTF mass flow rate at design [kg/s]

Type:

float

m_dot_htf_rec_max

Receiver max HTF mass flow rate [kg/s]

Type:

float

m_dot_pc

PC HTF mass flow rate [kg/s]

Type:

sequence

m_dot_pc_to_tes_cold

cycle to cold TES [kg/s]

Type:

sequence

Type:

Mass flow

m_dot_rec

Receiver mass flow rate [kg/s]

Type:

sequence

m_dot_tes_cold_out

TES cold out [kg/s]

Type:

sequence

Type:

Mass flow

m_dot_tes_hot_out

TES hot out [kg/s]

Type:

sequence

Type:

Mass flow

m_dot_water_ND_des_calc

UDPC calculated water use at design

Type:

float

m_dot_water_pc

PC water consumption, makeup + cooling [kg/s]

Type:

sequence

m_warm

Cold storage warm tank mass [kg]

Type:

sequence

mass_tes_cold

TES cold tank mass (end) [kg]

Type:

sequence

mass_tes_hot

TES hot tank mass (end) [kg]

Type:

sequence

n_T_amb_pars_calc

UDPC number of ambient temp parametric values

Type:

float

n_T_htf_pars_calc

UDPC number of HTF parametric values

Type:

float

n_m_dot_pars_calc

UDPC number of mass flow parametric values

Type:

float

n_op_modes

Operating modes in reporting timestep

Type:

sequence

nameplate

Nameplate capacity [MWe]

Type:

float

od_tube_calc

Receiver tube outer diameter - out [mm]

Type:

float

op_mode_1

1st operating mode

Type:

sequence

op_mode_2

2nd operating mode, if applicable

Type:

sequence

op_mode_3

3rd operating mode, if applicable

Type:

sequence

operating_modes_a

First 3 operating modes tried

Type:

sequence

operating_modes_b

Next 3 operating modes tried

Type:

sequence

operating_modes_c

Final 3 operating modes tried

Type:

sequence

pparasi

Field tracking power [MWe]

Type:

sequence

pricing_mult

PPA price multiplier

Type:

sequence

q_balance

Relative energy balance error

Type:

sequence

q_ch_tes

TES charge thermal power [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dc_tes

TES discharge thermal power [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_cycle_des

PC thermal input at design [MWt]

Type:

float

q_dot_elec_to_PAR_HTR

Electric heater thermal power target [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_est_cr_on

Estimated receiver thermal power TO HTF [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_est_cr_su

Estimated receiver startup thermal power [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_est_tes_ch

Estimated max TES charge thermal power [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_est_tes_dc

Estimated max TES discharge thermal power [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_heater_des

Heater design thermal power [MWt]

Type:

float

q_dot_heater_startup

Parallel heater thermal power consumed during startup [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_heater_to_htf

Parallel heater thermal power to HTF [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_loss_tes_des

TES thermal loss at design [MWt]

Type:

float

q_dot_pc_max

Max thermal power to PC [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_pc_min

Thermal power for PC min operation [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_pc_sb

Thermal power for PC standby [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_pc_startup

PC startup thermal power [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_pc_target

Target thermal power to PC [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_piping_loss_des

Receiver estimated piping loss at design [MWt]

Type:

float

q_dot_rec_des

Receiver thermal output at design [MWt]

Type:

float

q_dot_rec_inc

Receiver incident power after refl and defocus [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_dot_reflection_loss

Receiver reflection losses [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_heater

TES freeze protection power [MWe]

Type:

sequence

q_pb

PC input energy [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_pc_startup

PC startup thermal energy [MWht]

Type:

sequence

q_piping_losses

Receiver header/tower piping losses [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_sf_inc

Field incident thermal power [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_startup

Receiver startup thermal energy consumed [MWt]

Type:

sequence

q_thermal_loss

Receiver convection and emission losses [MWt]

Type:

sequence

radcool_control

Radiative cooling status code [-]

Type:

sequence

rec_defocus

Receiver component defocus

Type:

sequence

rec_height_calc

Receiver height - out [m]

Type:

float

refl_image_error

Reflected image error [mrad]

Type:

float

rh

Resource relative humidity [%]

Type:

sequence

sales_energy_capacity_factor

Capacity factor considering only positive net generation periods [%]

Type:

float

sf_adjust_out

Field availability adjustment factor

Type:

sequence

sim_cpu_run_time

Simulation duration clock time [s]

Type:

float

solar_mult_calc

Receiver solar multiple - out

Type:

float

solaz

Resource solar azimuth [deg]

Type:

sequence

solzen

Resource solar zenith [deg]

Type:

sequence

system_capacity

System capacity [kWe]

Type:

float

tank_losses

TES thermal losses [MWt]

Type:

sequence

tdry

Resource dry Bulb temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

tes_htf_pump_power

TES HTF pump power [MWe]

Type:

sequence

time_hr

Time at end of timestep [hr]

Type:

sequence

total_direct_cost

Total direct cost [$]

Type:

float

total_indirect_cost

Total indirect cost [$]

Type:

float

total_installed_cost

Total installed cost [$]

Type:

float

total_land_area

Total land area [acre]

Type:

float

total_land_area_before_rad_cooling_calc

Total land area not including radiative cooling - out [acre]

Type:

float

tou_value

CSP operating time-of-use value

Type:

sequence

tshours_heater

TES duration at heater design output [hr]

Type:

float

tshours_rec

TES duration at receiver design output [hr]

Type:

float

twet

Resource wet Bulb temperature [C]

Type:

sequence

ui_direct_subtotal

Direct capital precontingency cost [$]

Type:

float

vel_rec_htf_des

Receiver estimated tube HTF velocity at design [m/s]

Type:

float

wspd

Resource wind velocity [m/s]

Type:

sequence