Integrating Solar Energy into Fossil Fuel Power Plant with CO2 Capture and Storage: A Bibliographic Survey

There is an urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2). Currently, numerous research initiatives are underway to develop CO2 Capture and Storage (CCS) technologies aiming for net-zero emissions, especially in sectors that are difficult to decarbonize, such as fossil fuel power generation. Integrating solar thermal energy into CO2 capture facilities (CCFs) for fossil fuel-based power plants offers a promising approach to reduce the high operational costs associated with CO2 capture processes. However, a comprehensive systematic review focusing on the integration of solar thermal energy with CCFs in fossil fuel power generation is currently lacking. To address this gap, this study systematically evaluates the technological frameworks involved, including (a) various generation technologies such as coal-fired Rankine cycle plants, natural gas combined cycle plants, and cogeneration units; (b) concentrated solar power (CSP) technologies, including parabolic trough collectors, linear Fresnel reflectors, solar power towers, and Stirling dish systems; and (c) post-combustion CO2 capture systems. Additionally, this research analyzes relevant projects, patents, and scholarly publications from the past 25 years that explore the coupling of CSP technologies with fossil fuel power plants and post-combustion CO2 capture systems. This literature review encompasses diverse methodologies, such as innovative patents, conceptual models, evaluations of solar collector performances, thermal integration optimization, and various system configurations. It also investigates technical advancements aimed at improving efficiency, reliability, and flexibility of fossil fuel power plants while mitigating the inherent challenges of CO2 capture. Beyond the energy-focused aspects, we explore complementary circular economy strategies—such as by-product valorization and material substitution in sectors like mining, cement, and steel manufacturing—that can reduce embodied emissions and enhance the overall system benefits of solar-assisted CO2 capture. The review employs a bibliometric approach using digital tools including Publish or Perish, Mendeley, and VOSviewer to systematically analyze the scholarly landscape.