solar thermal energy

This is a form of solar energy that has, until recently, been overlooked in Australia.  Basically the sun’s rays are captured in mirrors concentrated on a radiation collector and heat up a heat-bearing medium, usually thermal oil.  The heat energy is then stored until required at which point a turbine transforms it into electricity.  The stored energy can be used at any time of the day or night and could provide stability to the grid.  This method of acquiring thermal energy is relatively cheap and the energy that it produces can be used in many contexts.