Solar radiation collector and system for converting and storing collected solar energy

Apparatus for converting and storing solar energy comprising, in combination:

• a. collector means for collecting and reflecting incident solar radiation, said collector means including
• 1. a generally circular framework having a planar configuration;
• 2. a plurality of concentric annuli, each annulus having a plurality of modules, wherein each of said modules includes
• a shape substantially identical to that of every other module comprising said annulus,
• a generally planar rear surface,
• a reflective front surface having a concave shape with a point of focus,
• b. concentrator means for concentrating the reflected solar radiation, said concentrator means including
• 1. a reflector located between said collector means and the solar radiation source for directing said solar radiation on a concentrated area, said reflector having a convex surface facing said collector means;
• 2. a support for positioning said reflector in axial alignment with said collector means;
• 3. a focuser for selectively moving said reflector along the axis of said collector means thereby selectively determining the location of the concentrated area on which said solar radiation is directed;
• and
• 4. tracking means for maximizing the exposure of said collector means to normal incident solar radiation;
• c. converter and storage means for converting the concentrated solar radiation into electrical energy and potential energy and for storing the potential energy, said converter and storage means including
• 1. a low elevation reservoir for retaining water,
• 2. a high elevation reservoir for retaining water and for collecting surface water,
• 3. a boiler positioned at the axis of said collector means for converting water into steam,
• 4. a turbine powered by steam from said boiler,
• 5. a condenser for converting steam leaving said turbine into water and for returning said converted water to said boiler,
• 6. a generator powered by said turbine for producing electrical energy, and
• 7. a pump powered by said turbine for producing and storing potential energy by transferring water from said low elevation reservoir to said high elevation reservoir;
• and
• d. auxiliary conversion means for converting the stored potential energy into electrical energy, said auxiliary conversion means including a hydroelectric generator powered by water from said high elevation reservoir.