Reuel Shinnar and Francesco Citro. "Solar Thermal Energy: The Forgotten Energy Source." Technology in Society 29 (2007) 261–270, http://www.sciencedirect.com.ezproxy.mnsu.edu/science?_ob=MImg&_imagekey=B6V80-4P00S49-1-9&_cdi=5856&_user=1822432&_pii=S0160791X07000255&_origin=search&_zone=rslt_list_item&_coverDate=08%2F31%2F2007&_sk=999709996&wchp=dGLbVlz-zSkzS&md5=8ed5efb2bdda790d58a081b3ec16b4a5&ie=/sdarticle.pdf.
This article discusses using solar power to heat water to really high temperatures allowing it to raise steam and drive turbines of electricity generating plants. This method can also be used to store the heated water in ponds and use as necessary for power source. The authors explain the effectiveness of this power source especially in terms of larger steam power plants. The authors concede this isn't the only solution but offer it as part of a larger solution involving more than one type of renewable energy. The cost is not high when compared to fossil fuels currently used. Furthermore, this technology can replace all but 16-20% usage of fossil fuels and other renewable energy sources can take care of that portion. The authors estimate using this technology would reduce use of fossil fuels by 55% by lowering usage of coal by 80%, oil by 50%, and natural gas by 50% reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 60%. And, oil imports would be eliminated completely.
This article provided good stats on the use of solar thermal power as part of an overall solution to conversion to renewable energy. It also showed that there is more use for solar than just solar panels making solar a cost effective choice.
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