Concentrating solar technology works from differently from photovoltaic panels. The technology uses mirrors to focus light onto a container holding a liquid that is then heated and used to drive a turbine.
Such technology is largely effective during daylight hours, especially when considering how many of these systems use tracking technology that moves the solar panels along with the sun.
Some concentrated solar systems use molten salt technology to keep the heat generated from day light hours working into the night.
"Low-cost renewable energy generation that includes energy storage is one key to our efforts to diversify domestic energy sources and create new jobs. By investing in the development of low-cost solar technologies we can pave the way toward faster deployment of carbon-free, large-scale energy sources," said Energy Secretary Steven Chu.
The Energy Department funds are aiming to develop concentrated solar technology that generates electricity for up to 18 hours a day.
