Opportunities and challenges in using particle circulation loops for concentrated solar power applications

•Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) is an electricity generation technology with high potential.•Gas/solid suspensions as heat transfer fluid can be used throughout the full CSP plant.•A novel Upflow Bubbling Fluidized Bed (UBFB) receiver concept is presented and assessed.•Hot particulate heat carriers foster the use of advanced thermodynamic cycles in the power block.•Some scale-up challenges must be resolved, but prospects and economy of the system are positive.