ABB Upgrades Solar Plant Control Systems in Spain
ABB has been selected by independent power producer ContourGlobal to modernize automation systems at four concentrated solar power (CSP) plants in southwestern Spain. This upgrade will enable safe and efficient integration of renewable energy into the national grid, supporting Europe’s ongoing energy transition.
The existing systems, operational for over ten years, will migrate to the ABB Ability™ Symphony® Plus SCADA platform, based on AC500 and AC800M controllers. This upgrade ensures scalable, high-performance control solutions, enhancing long-term system availability and cybersecurity.
Precision Solar Tracking for Maximum Efficiency
ABB’s solar tracking algorithm calculates sun position every 480 milliseconds with an accuracy of 0.0001 degrees. Consequently, the 7,400 mirrors at these CSP plants can maintain optimal alignment, correcting for drift, terrain tilt, and varying weather conditions. This precision maximizes energy capture and ensures consistent plant performance.
Moreover, the solution provides flexible integration with existing third-party systems, allowing phased upgrades. As a result, downtime is minimized, ensuring continuous operational efficiency and reliability.
CSP as a Key Driver of Renewable Integration
Concentrated solar power offers dispatchable electricity, complementing variable renewable generation on the grid. While photovoltaic (PV) panels generate electricity directly, CSP plants focus sunlight with mirror arrays onto receivers. The concentrated heat then drives a fluid to generate steam, powering turbines. This method enables CSP plants to store energy and produce power even during low sunlight periods.
EU-funded CSP research projects explore more efficient cycles and components, supporting the construction of next-generation plants. ABB’s modernized control systems provide a robust foundation for these advancements.
Expert Insight on Automation Modernization
Per Erik Holsten, President of ABB’s Energy Industries division, commented: “Modernizing automation equipment is as critical as installing new assets for building safe and sustainable energy systems. By leveraging our expertise in automation, electrification, and digitalization, we help operators like ContourGlobal extend plant life, increase efficiency, and deliver reliable renewable power to the grid.”
Integrated Control and Cybersecurity Architecture
ABB’s solution integrates Symphony Plus SCADA, S+ historical data management, AC800M control cabinets, and AC500 local solar field controllers. Advanced cybersecurity measures, including automated backups, patch authentication, and antivirus management, enhance system integrity and compliance.
The four CSP plants are located in Málaga (approx. 210 km from Madrid), Aurelianna (approx. 300 km from Madrid), and Palma del Río (approx. 90 km from Seville), with two Palma del Río units slated for upgrades. The migration is scheduled for completion by February 2027.
Application Scenarios and Industry Impact
- Factory Automation and Renewable Integration: Ensures smooth integration of CSP power into national grids.
- High-Precision Process Control: Optimizes solar tracking for maximum energy yield.
- Digital Twin and SCADA Testing: Allows operators to simulate operations before deployment.
- Cybersecure Industrial Automation: Protects critical energy infrastructure from operational risks.