[gnode]

The technology is fundamentally simple, but not practical on a small scale. There are plenty of large, yet simple projects which nobody cares to invest in because there are better (including more expedient, or proven) alternatives.

CSP requires a large investment compared to PV solar, as it needs to be done at scale to make coolant systems, towers, turbines and generators cost effective. It needs its own large allocation of land, rather than be distributed. It also, like PV solar, has poor temporal availability, so compares badly to fossil fuels, nuclear and hydro.

It has potential to be cheaper than PV, and integrate well with thermal energy storage. It could also be more efficient, if the temperature can be increased (due to Carnot efficiency). However, the convenience and falling prices of PV panels may prevent CSP becoming popular.