Operational Design and Performance Analysis of CSP-PV-BESS Hybrids in Azerbaijan

This study examines a potential hybrid solar power plant that integrates concentrating solar power (CSP) with thermal energy storage (TES), photovoltaic (PV) generation, and a grid-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) to provide continuous electricity in Azerbaijan. The analysis focuses on the Nakhchivan region, which offers strong solar resource potential. We formalize a relation that links the firm night-time demand to available TES capacity and a predefined battery block, and evaluate two representative configurations under a common dispatch policy. In both cases, PV supplies daytime demand, the CSP unit stores midday solar heat for later use, and the BESS (500 MW) manages ramps and short-term fluctuations. The first configuration is a larger-scale option intended to deliver 250 MW of firm power, supported by approximately 450 MW of PV, about 300 MW of CSP, and ~14 h of TES. The second configuration is a smaller-scale option designed for a continuous 100 MW supply, supported by roughly 300 MW of PV, 100 MW of CSP, and ~12 h of TES. Under the stated assumptions, both configurations meet a 24-hour supply target with modest energy margins. The results indicate that CSP-PV-BESS hybrids can enhance reliability and reduce midday curtailment. Among the two options, the 100 MW configuration appears to be the more practical starting point for near-term deployment, with the potential to scale as local capabilities develop.