The installation of floating solar panels – also known as “Floatovoltaics” – is increasing, especially in places where is necessary to optimize the (lack of) space.
A creative approach, floating solar panels are especially useful for land-poor nations. Despite a higher product cost, floating solar systems are an efficient option because the cooling effect of the water reduces thermal losses, making this solution more competitive than land-based systems in terms of production.
The effects of floating solar panels on the environment are still unknown, despite their increasing popularity as a solar energy system option. There are hundreds of megawatts of “floatvoltaics” installed worldwide at the moment, with the greatest potential being in the Americas and Africa.
This is due to the fact that floating solar panels are best placed in artificial water bodies, irrigation channels, and hydropower plant reservoirs to prevent harm to natural areas and animal habitats. Given the size of their hydropower reservoirs, countries in Africa and America, such as Brazil and Canada, have the most potential to produce floating solar power.
Floating solar panels environmental impact
The ideal green energy production mix would generate free-carbon power with a minimum social and environmental impact. The repercussions of floating solar panels installations are still unknown.
Some environmental monitoring is being made to give some clarity on the subject and, on the long run, being considered when defining new policies and legislation. The researchers believe some of the impacts may include the blocking of the light in the water, influencing the feeding and reproduction pattens of algae, which can consequently reduce the oxygen in the water, harming the wildlife and impacting the whole ecosystem. Interference with greenhouse gas exchange between the atmosphere and water, such as methane, is another potential effect. However, the impact will vary with the different panels designs, area and landscapes.
News originally published on Eos.
Universal Kraft is a pioneer in floating solar and now has solid expertise and a designed portfolio of over 230 MW. We are currently developing projects in Europe and Asia.
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