Solar collection and conversion system and methods and apparatus for control thereof

A solar energy collection and conversion system comprising:

• a solar energy collector, wherein the solar energy collector transfers solar energy to a first fluid to elevate a temperature of the first fluid;
• a vaporizer in fluidic communication with the solar energy collector for transferring thermal energy from the first fluid to a second fluid to elevate a temperature of the second fluid;
• an expander in fluidic communication with the vaporizer for converting thermal energy of the second fluid into mechanical energy;
• a condenser in fluidic communication with the expander to reduce a temperature of the second fluid;
• a compressor in fluidic communication with the condenser for pumping the second fluid at least partially through the vaporizer;
• a conduit configured to transport at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid between at least two of the solar energy collector, the vaporizer, the expander, the condenser, and the compressor;
• and
• a controller for controlling a parameter associated with at least one of the collector, the vaporizer, the expander, the condenser, and the compressor,
• wherein at least one of the first fluid, the vaporizer, the expander, the condenser, the compressor, the conduit, and the controller comprise a component adapted for use in a non-solar power generation system application.