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Solar Steam Train Concept |
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Written by Tim Castleman
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Concentrated solar thermal energy will be collected using parabolic
trough technology and used to make steam at a plant that will also
house electric power generation and transfer equipment. Initially,
historic fireless locomotives will be restored and used on tourist
train lines as demonstration platforms. Simultaneously, Research and
Development will commence in concert with the State University system
to build and deploy modern steam technology in the transportation
sector.
The hybrid steam plant will serve as the heart of a District Energy
System providing energy security and efficiency for upcoming
development projects. In addition to thermal energy collected from the
sun, biomass, fossil fuels and 'waste' heat are feed-stock candidates
to supplement solar at night and on cloudy winter days.
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