Floating Solar: Can This Emerging Tech Power Our Future?

The Growing Need for Offshore Energy

Renewable energy is an abundant resource, but the transition to a world powered by renewables presents its own set of challenges. The urgent need to decarbonize, coupled with finite resources and limited suitable land for development, compels us to look beyond traditional land-based solutions. With over 70% of the Earth's surface covered by water, the oceans represent a vast, untapped resource for renewable energy generation.

The Rise of Floating Solar

Recognizing this potential, solar developers are increasingly exploring the possibilities of offshore solar farms. The advantages are numerous. Offshore solar installations offer:

Greater solar irradiance: Sunlight levels are generally higher at sea, leading to increased energy production potential.
Consistent generation: Offshore solar farms experience more consistent generation throughout the year compared to their onshore counterparts.
Proximity to coastal areas: Location near populated areas minimizes the need for long-distance transmission lines and energy losses.
Resilience to climate change: Being nearshore, they are less vulnerable to extreme weather events such as hurricanes and flooding.

Overcoming Engineering Challenges

While the potential for offshore floating solar is undeniable, several engineering challenges need to be addressed before it can be fully commercialized. The marine environment poses unique challenges, particularly when it comes to:

Saltwater corrosion: Saltwater can severely affect the durability of solar panels and electrical components.
Wave motion: Systems need to withstand the constant movement and force of waves.
Environmental impact: Large-scale deployments raise concerns about potential impacts on marine ecosystems.

Innovative Solutions

To address these challenges, developers are exploring various innovative solutions. Three main technological approaches are emerging:

Rafted Exposed

This technology features a reinforced framework that elevates the PV modules, creating a sufficient freeboard to minimize wave impact. There are two variations:

Elevated: The platform is raised above the water, providing better protection for panels and equipment.
Low-Profile: The platform sits on the water's surface, allowing waves to flow through it, reducing the impact on the overall structure.

Membrane

In this design, PV modules are fitted to a large, mattress-like floater. The membrane is pliable and conforms to the shape of the waves, offering strong resistance against wind, currents, and swells. It is designed to be actively cooled by water contact, which enhances energy yield.

Global Progress and Key Players

The floating solar sector is attracting significant interest globally. Key players like Ocean Sun (Norway) and Bluewater Energy Services (the Netherlands) are leading the development of membrane-based systems, while Oceans of Energy (the Netherlands), Fred. Olsen 1848 (Norway), and Offsolar (France) are focusing on rafted-low profile technologies. Companies such as Solarduck (the Netherlands), SeaVolt (Belgium), and Moss Maritime (Norway) are advancing rafted-elevated solar solutions. Several countries, including the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and China are actively exploring the potential of floating solar.

Validation and Verification

To build confidence in the sector, independent third-party verification and certification are crucial. DNV, a global assurance and risk management company, plays a vital role in this process. Their comprehensive approach includes:

Verification of Design Methodologies: DNV has verified the design methodologies of several floating solar projects, including those from Ocean Sun, Sunlit Sea, Oceans of Energy, Moss Maritime, and Sungrow.
Evaluation of Prototypes: DNV is working with technology providers to establish when projects can move from design-based verification to prototype or detailed engineering evaluation.
Ongoing Oversight and Certification: DNV offers ongoing third-party oversight and certification services to ensure projects adhere to best practices and industry standards.

The Future of Floating Solar

The development of floating solar is still in its early stages, but the potential is enormous. By addressing the engineering challenges and ensuring environmental sustainability, this emerging technology has the potential to make a significant contribution to the global shift towards renewable energy. The success of floating solar will depend on continued innovation, collaboration between industry players and governments, and a willingness to overcome the challenges ahead.

A New Era of Energy

Floating offshore solar is not just a technological advancement, it is a paradigm shift in how we approach energy production. By harnessing the vast potential of the ocean, we can create a more sustainable future, fueled by clean and renewable energy. The journey ahead will be challenging, but the rewards for success are immense.

Quotes and Data

“The broader offshore wind industry continues its exciting growth phase and our long term scenarios suggest offshore wind will play a vital role in energy transition and may provide between 6% and 9% of global energy supply by 2050,” said Steve Gordon, Managing Director of Clarksons Research.
A leading energy company recently declined a move into offshore solar because of the saltwater consideration, which massively affects the durability of the system.
The 440MWp Changhua floating solar park near Taiwan became operational last year.

Conclusion

The future of floating offshore solar is bright. By combining innovation, ingenuity, and a commitment to sustainability, we can unlock the vast potential of this emerging technology. This will require a collaborative effort from industry leaders, governments, and investors, all working towards a common goal - a clean energy future.