Floating solar Panels

How do floating solar panels work?

When sunlight hits the floating solar panels, it excites electrons in the silicon cells, generating an electric current. This direct current (DC) electricity is then converted to alternating current (AC) by inverters, usually located on the shore, making it suitable for use in the power grid.

What is floating solar?

Floating solar, also known as floating photovoltaic (FPV) or floatovoltaics, is any solar array that floats on top of a body of water. Floating solar has predominantly been installed in countries such as China, Japan, and the U.K. It is also quickly gaining popularity in the U.S., especially in California and New Jersey.

What is floating photovoltaics?

Floating photovoltaics means floating solar plants on lakes and other bodies of water. The technology enables energy companies to expand solar power without taking up more land. In 2021, the installed capacity worldwide was significantly above two gigawatts and counting, according to the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE).

Are floating solar panels a viable alternative to ground-mounted solar panels?

Floating PV plant technology has enormous potential for generating energy and protecting the climate – potential that has barely been tapped into yet. In contrast to ground-mounted solar panels, PV modules are installed on floating structures and operate on a body of standing water or the sea. Ground-mounted solar farms need plenty of space.