New method to identify best locations for offshore hybrid PV-wind projects
Scientists in Spain have created a new index that reportedly help project developers identify better areas in initial stages of hybrid wind-solar power plants development. The proposed approach is claimed to avoid deficiencies of previous criteria and overestimation caused by time delays.
The impact of wind load effects on offshore floating photovoltaics
Researchers have investigated the aerodynamic performance of a single floating PV setup of 16 panels, as well as an array that combined 15 such setups. They found that drag coefficient distributions and wind pressure effects on PV systems vary by inlet angle. They have also identified cost-saving opportunities through material optimization.
Ecuador could host floating PV facilities at 11 hydropower plants
An international team has researched the potential to deploy floating photovoltaics at hydroelectric stations in Ecuador, finding 11 out of 70 sites that could host at least 15 MW up to 200 MW.
Contract signed for world’s northernmost floating solar plant
The 160 kW floating solar system, from Norwegian renewable energy company Alotta, will be deployed off the Norwegian coast, helping to reduce the diesel and CO2 consumption at a site belonging to a fishing company.
Photovoltaics for sea cucumber aquaculture
Scientists in China have conducted a year-long study on six “aquavoltaics” farms hosting sea cucumber aquacultures under the solar panels. Due to the lower water temperature, the hibernation period of the animal was reduced, as was mortality, compared to the previous year.
International partners plan floating solar projects in Australia
Singapore-based Canopy Power has teamed with Norwegian floating PV specialist Ocean Sun aiming to accelerate the deployment of floating solar technology across Australia.
Research shows floating PV can reduce lake water temperature by 1.2 C
A before-after-control-impact study conducted at six French lakes for three years has revealed that PV coverage decreases water temperature by 1.2 C on average. The reduction in water temperature also occurred in areas of the lakes that were not covered with modules.
Floating solar could reach LCOE of $0.053/kWh in Saudi Arabia
Scientists in Saudi Arabia have assessed the techno-economical feasibility of floating PV plants at three different dams and have found that such projects could have a return on investment of 12 to 13 years.
The case for combining pumped-hydro storage with floating PV
Researchers in Italy have analyzed the techno-economic viability of enhancing three pumped hydro plants in Italy with floating PV on the lower basin. They say that, with their wide results, consequences could be extrapolated to similar regions.
Around 10% of the world’s inland reservoirs could host 22 TW of floating PV
An international research team has assessed the worldwide status and potential of inland floating photovoltaic (FPV) installations, including analysis of the use of trackers and bifacial solar panels.
