Techno-economic and performance analysis of concentrated solar power and conventional photovoltaic technology for power generation in a suitable climate zone

This study presents a techno-economic and performance comparison of concentrated solar power (CSP) and conventional photovoltaics (PV) for utility-scale power generation in Pakistan’s high-irradiance regions. A 50 MW parabolic trough CSP plant and an equivalent 50 MW PV system were modeled using the System Advisor Model (SAM) to evaluate annual energy yield, system efficiency, and economic performance. Quetta, in Balochistan, was chosen as the best location based on climatic data such as Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI), temperature, and wind speed. The simulation results show that the CSP plant can generate around 149 GWh per year with a capacity factor of 37.9%, compared to 122 GWh and 27.2% for the PV system. While the CSP system has the advantage of integrated thermal energy storage, which provides up to 8 h of dispatchable power, its Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) is much higher due to increased capital expenses. The findings highlight CSP's potential as a technologically superior solution with future cost reductions, especially when paired with thermal storage or hybridized with auxiliary fuels. Concentrated solar power technology is feasible for high irradiance regions, so weather data is collected for different areas in Pakistan, and it was found that the Quetta region is best suited for concentrated solar power technology. The concentrated solar power plant is also integrated with thermal energy storage. VP-1 oil is used as a heat transfer fluid, while HITEC solar salt is used for storage. RET Screen software was used to analyze photovoltaic feasibility technology. This study will add value to the literature and be used as baseline data for future concentrated solar power technology development in Pakistan. This research provides a framework for strategic solar energy planning in Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of site selection, technical maturity, and hybrid system integration in attaining a resilient and ecologically responsible energy future. The graphical abstract. • A 50 MW CSP plant and PV system are modeled for Quetta using SAM software. • CSP achieves 149 GWh/year and 37.9% CF, outperforming PV in energy yield. • CSP delivers 149 GWh/year with a 37.9% capacity factor, surpassing PV’s 122 GWh/year and 27.2%. • PV remains more cost-effective due to a lower levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). • The study presents quarterly and annual solar resource profiles, supporting site-specific CSP feasibility in Pakistan.