Could floating solar power boost UK energy security?

Using just 2.3% of the total area of Europe’s hydropower reservoirs for floating solar installations could produce 42.3TWh of power each year. Given that the UK has around 570 reservoirs (although not all of these produce hydropower), floating solar installations could provide a significant boost to UK energy security.

Why did a leading energy company decline a move into offshore solar?

A leading energy company recently declined a move into offshore solar because of the saltwater consideration, which massively affects the durability of the system. PV modules, the key component in solar systems, are not designed for salty environments. Even when PV modules are located onshore but near to the sea, corrosiveness can be a problem.

Can solar projects be built offshore?

Onshore, these projects would be competing for land use with other activities, such as agriculture or urban development. Out at sea though, they are largely out of sight and out of mind. Solar developers are increasingly coming around to the exciting potential of stationing hundreds of photovoltaic systems offshore.

Are floatovoltaic solar projects taking off in the UK?

However, the UK has seen few floating solar projects take off, despite the potential they hold. There are precious few floatovoltaic installations operating in the UK at present.

Should solar systems be stationed at sea?

The idea of stationing PV systems at sea is rapidly gaining traction as an exciting new opportunity for the industry. Jasper Lemmens and Magnus B. Johannesen of DNV assess the many engineering challenges of offshore solar and its prospects for commercialisation.

Are floating photovoltaics more energy efficient at sea than onshore?

Solar irradiance levels are broadly higher at sea than they are onshore, meaning floating photovoltaics (FPV) have access to abundant renewable resources, leading to higher energy production potential and more consistent generation throughout the year.