The German R+D program "Solares Testzentrum Almeria" (SOTA) provides the scientific basis for the realization of advanced solar technologies including facility modifications, component tests and new lines of development. One of the working packages, WP 300, addresses the "Scientific Support" by the performance of preparatory studies, exploratory laboratory activities and qualified expertise. Universities, research institutes and company R+D entities in Germany are enabled to treat the following aspects: meteorological, system and cost investigations, development of important components as concentrator, receiver, storage, utilization of solar energy for process heat and chemical reactions. In 1988 and 1989 the studies concentrated on the development of components. The reports of the activities were finalized recently and collected in the present volumes. The final reports were printed as received under the responsibility of the authors. This monograph on energy technology (power plants) and the environmental sciences is intended for researchers, engineers and other professionals.