Modeling and control of Solar Energy Systems
Overview
Here, contributions related to the modelling, control and optimization of solar-energy-based processes are presented. The main objective is to develop accurate and practical modelling approaches that describe the dynamic behavior of solar thermal systems and their interaction with environmental conditions, and to exploit these models for simulation, control design and performance optimization. Research activities address the modelling of key subsystems in solar thermal installations using both first-principles and data-driven approaches, enabling their use in advanced monitoring and control strategies. Particular attention is given to technologies such as parabolic trough collectors, solar desalination systems, solar furnaces, and other solar-driven thermal processes. These systems involve complex energy transfer mechanisms and strong dependence on variable solar radiation, which require robust modelling and control methodologies. Control strategies include classical PID and feedforward schemes commonly used in industrial thermal systems, as well as advanced techniques such as predictive, adaptive and robust control. These approaches aim to ensure stable operation under fluctuating solar input while maximizing energy capture, thermal efficiency and operational reliability. A hierarchical framework is also considered, where low-level regulatory control of temperatures, flow rates and thermal storage units is combined with higher-level optimization strategies. Within this framework, optimal operating conditions and reference trajectories are computed to improve system performance under changing environmental and operating conditions. The overall objectives are to maximize energy efficiency, improve the utilization of solar resources, and enhance the sustainability of solar-driven industrial processes. Many of the results presented in this research line have been obtained through long-standing collaboration with the Solar Platform of Almería (PSA) and within the research activities of the joint research centre CIESOL (CIEMAT–University of Almería), where experimental solar facilities have enabled the validation of the proposed modelling and control methodologies.
Facilities
