Credit:CreativeNature_nl
Floating photovoltaics (FPV), also known as floating solar or floating solar panels, is a technology that involves installing solar photovoltaic panels on bodies of water such as lakes, reservoirs, and ponds. The solar panels are mounted on floats that keep them afloat on the water's surface, while the electrical equipment and cabling are installed on the shore or on a nearby platform.
The technology is gaining popularity as a solution for land-constrained areas and water bodies with limited use or value. Some benefits of floating photovoltaics include:
Efficient use of space: Floating photovoltaics can help to maximize the use of space by installing solar panels on water bodies that may not be suitable for other uses such as agriculture or construction.
Reduced land use conflicts: By installing solar panels on water bodies, land use conflicts between agriculture, urban development, and renewable energy production can be reduced.
Increased energy production: Solar panels installed on water bodies can experience lower temperatures and more favorable conditions for energy production, which can result in higher energy yields.
Reduced water evaporation: The shade provided by the floating solar panels can reduce the rate of water evaporation, thus reducing the loss of water from the reservoir or lake.
Improved water quality: The shade provided by the floating solar panels can also reduce the growth of algae and other harmful microorganisms in the water, leading to improved water quality.
Overall, floating photovoltaics is an innovative and sustainable solution for energy production, which can help to maximize land use and reduce the impact of renewable energy production on the environment.