Innovations in the Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) industry have significantly accelerated the transition to renewable energy. The sector is evolving with advancements in solar thermal power, energy storage, and hybrid systems.
Most Recent Developments in CSP Technology
New Xinneng CSP Plant with 100 MW Thermal Capacity Operational in China– China Xinneng Solar Energy Company Limited: In 2025, China began the commissioning phase for the Xinneng CSP project, which represents a notable achievement in CSP integration. The plant is designed to operate with a thermal output of 200 MW and employs molten salt storage to produce electricity overnight or during colder periods.
Noor Energy 1: Largest CSP-PV Modular Power Plant with 15-Hour Reserve Energy: In 2025, the world is expected to have one of the largest CSP-PV modular power plants, Noor Energy 1, with a 700 MW capacity, ready for use. This facility proclaims the integration of photovoltaic with the Power Heat Storage System (PHSS), enabling 15 hours of reserve energy.
Heliogen's AI-Driven CSP System Achieves Milestones: In 2025, American company Heliogen is working with AI-enabled heliostat technologies to track solar resources more accurately, resulting in higher efficiency of CSP systems as well as a lower cost of operations.
Spain's Cerro Dominador CSP Plant Enhances Thermal Storage: In 2025, Spain remains a key player in CSP technology with its efforts to refine thermal storage methods. The Cerro Dominador plant is testing a new approach that incorporates the ability to store additional energy in a more heat energy-dense fluid than molten salt.
Impact of these development on the CSP Industry
The global CSP industry is being reshaped by hybrid CSP-PV systems, AI-powered automation, and advancements in thermal storage. These innovations are driving down costs and increasing profitability, attracting greater investment into the sector. In 2022, the global CSP industry was valued at US$5.29 billion, with a projected CAGR of 10.8% from 2023 to 2030. As investment increases, economies will rely more on sustainable energy sources, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Favorable regulations and continued technological improvements will accelerate the transition to clean energy, positioning CSP as a key player in the renewable energy landscape.
New Xinneng CSP Plant (China) – 100 MW Thermal Capacity: The integration of molten salt storage enhances energy reliability by enabling electricity production overnight and during low-sunlight periods. This advancement strengthens China's renewable energy grid, reduces dependence on fossil fuels, and improves CSP efficiency.
Noor Energy 1: Largest CSP-PV Modular Power Plant: By combining CSP with photovoltaic technology and a 15-hour energy reserve, Noor Energy 1 ensures continuous power generation. This hybrid system enhances grid stability, supports large-scale renewable adoption, and demonstrates a scalable model for future solar energy projects.
Heliogen's AI-Driven CSP System: AI-enabled heliostat tracking improves solar resource accuracy, leading to higher efficiency and lower operational costs. This innovation optimizes energy capture, reduces land use requirements, and makes CSP a more competitive alternative to conventional power generation.
Spain’s Cerro Dominador CSP Plant: Enhanced Thermal Storage: The development of heat-dense storage fluids increases energy retention capacity, allowing CSP plants to store and dispatch power more effectively. This improvement enhances the reliability of solar energy, reduces storage costs, and extends the operational flexibility of CSP technology.
By integrating hybrid systems, AI automation, and advanced storage technologies, CSP is enhancing the renewable energy sector. With sustained investment in CSP infrastructure, the industry is set to play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future.
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