Solar energy stored in large bodies of water, called solar pounds, is being used to generate electricity. If such a solar power plant has an efficiency of 4 percent and a net power output of 350 kW, determine the average value of the required solar energy collection rate, in Btu/h.

2.9 * 10^ ⁷ Btu/h

Explanation:

The given data is:

The efficiency of solar power plant = 4%

The net power output Ẇ = 350 kW

Then,

The expression for efficiency is,

η = Ẇ/˙

Q

Q = Ẇ/η

Where Q is the rate of heat collection.

Substituting the values in above expression becomes,

Q = 350/0.04

Q = 8750 kW

By doing the unit conversion for the collection rate.

1kW = 3412.14 Btu/h

Q = 8750 * 3412.14

Q = 2.9 * 10^ ⁷ Btu/h

Therefore the he average value of the required solar energy collection rate in Btu/h is 2.9 * 10^⁷ Btu/h