ABB modernizes CSP control systems for ContourGlobal

ABB has been selected by ContourGlobal to modernize the solar field control systems at four concentrated solar power (CSP) plants located in southwestern Spain. The project aims to optimize plant operations and support the efficient integration of renewable energy into national power grids.

Context of the cooperation
ContourGlobal operates CSP facilities that have been in service for more than a decade, creating the need to upgrade automation systems to maintain efficiency, availability and regulatory compliance. ABB acts as the technology provider, delivering solutions in automation, electrification and digitalization.

The cooperation addresses the requirements of the European energy system, where CSP plays a key role by providing dispatchable generation that complements variable renewable energy sources.

Technical solution and architecture
The project involves migrating existing systems to the ABB Ability™ Symphony^® Plus SCADA platform, based on AC500 and AC 800M controllers. This architecture enables integrated control and data management, offering scalability, improved system availability and enhanced cybersecurity capabilities.

The system includes solar tracking algorithms that calculate the sun’s position every 480 milliseconds with an accuracy of 0.0001 degrees. This enables continuous positioning of approximately 7,400 mirrors per installation, compensating for factors such as structural drift, terrain inclination and changing weather conditions.

Implementation and deployment
The solution is deployed through an integrated architecture that includes supervisory control (SCADA), data historization (S+ Historian) and distributed control functionalities. The migration is carried out in phases, allowing seamless integration with existing third-party systems while minimizing operational disruptions.

The project covers facilities located in Majadas, Orellana and Palma del Río, where multiple solar fields will be upgraded. Completion of the migration is scheduled for February 2027.

Applications and operation
CSP plants use mirror fields to concentrate solar radiation onto a central receiver. The generated heat is used to produce steam that drives turbines, while also enabling thermal energy storage for power generation when sunlight is unavailable.

The control system optimizes this process through continuous mirror alignment and real-time monitoring of operational parameters, contributing to improved overall plant efficiency.




Operational impact
The modernization extends the lifecycle of existing assets and enhances operational reliability. Integration capabilities and cybersecurity features strengthen system protection, while digitalization supports data management and decision-making processes.

Overall, the cooperation between ABB and ContourGlobal contributes to more efficient and secure CSP plant operation, supporting grid stability and the energy transition in Europe.

Edited by Maria Brueva, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

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