Abstract: Heat exchange apparatus (24, 80) includes first heat transfer tubes (50), contained within an enclosure (43) and coupled to receive a first fluid heated by an energy source (22, 36). Second heat transfer tubes (52) are interleaved with the first heat transfer tubes within the enclosure so as to heat a second fluid contained in the second heat transfer tubes by transfer of heat from the first fluid, and are coupled to output the heated second fluid to drive target equipment (30). A heat storage medium (48) fills the enclosure.

Abstract: Heat exchange apparatus (24, 80) includes first heat transfer tubes (50), contained within an enclosure (43) and coupled to receive a first fluid heated by an energy source (22, 36). Second heat transfer tubes (52) are interleaved with the first heat transfer tubes within the enclosure so as to heat a second fluid contained in the second heat transfer tubes by transfer of heat from the first fluid, and are coupled to output the heated second fluid to drive target equipment (30). A heat storage medium (48) fills the enclosure.

Abstract: A method for erecting a solar field includes inserting piles into the ground in a predefined pattern covering an area of the solar field, and deploying rails between the piles. Elements of an array of solar collectors are transported along the rails to respective deployment locations in the solar field. The solar collectors are erected on the piles using the elements at the respective deployment locations.

Abstract: A solar system comprising a reflector and a heat collecting element (HCE) received at the focus of the reflector. The HCE comprises a coated tube received within a coaxial evacuated enveloping glass tube. The enveloping glass tube is secured at respective ends thereof to the coated tube by a coaxially deformable connector element having a distal end thereof sealingly secured to the coated tube and a proximal end thereof sealingly attached to a respective end of the enveloping glass tube by a glass to metal connection (GMC). A radiation shield assembly is provided over the connector element and over the GMC and is secured to the connector element by support legs engaging the connector element adjacent the proximal end.