Solar Ponds for District Heating and Electricity Generation

System requirements, performance, and costs for the application of solar ponds to district heating and to electricity generation are considered. The optimal sizing and configuration of the solar ponds themselves are emphasized, but other system features are also investigated and discussed. Performance and costs range widely, depending upon location and component costs, particularly upon salt costs for the salt gradient pond. Distribution cost for district heating is also an important parameter that can vary widely. Both salt gradient and saltless ponds are considered.