Abstract: In the study, three different solar power generating systems (including solar thermal and PV) are analyzed, according to same climate data in Jiayuguan, Gansu province. Solar parabolic trough and tower thermal power systems are selected as typical thermal system. Parabolic trough system and polycrystalline silicon cell are maturity and popularized in the world and tower system is developed to commercial stage in recent year. Then calculated and analyzed the generating capacity and economic characters of three power systems. The results can be used to support technology choice, operation and design optimization.