Innovative Floating Solar Technology Offers a New Paradigm in Energy Production

Solaris Synergy, an Israel-based company, EDF Group, a French-based firm, have collaborated to develop floating solar power plants.

Two major factors impact solar energy system installations; one is vast areas of land is required for construction and the other is the high cost of production and maintenance of solar cells. The AQUASUN project aims to address these factors.

The project is being implemented at Cadarache, France. The water surface of a nearby hydro-electric facility is being tapped for the installation of the floating solar panels. Utilization of these industrial water basins will not impact the flora, fauna, water quality or the environment. The solar panels work as a breathing surface via which the oxygen can enter into the water.

A solar concentration system, which is based on mirrors, decreases the quantity of solar cells and ensures a steady generation of power. The floating solar panels use silicon solar cells, which experience overheating problems and should be cooled down so that the panels can function properly. Silicon solar cells are efficient, durable and cost-efficient.

On a single solar platform, numerous identical solar panel modules, each capable of generating 200 kW of electricity, can be assembled to attain the desired power rating. Additional modules can be added when more power is needed.