Unique research into floating solar panels

A consortium led by TNO has started a research project for floating solar energy systems. Partners are the petrochemical company SABIC, the Norwegian energy company Equinor and the municipality of Westvoorne. Three promising system designs have been installed and will be monitored for a year. This research will support further develop floating solar energy, including in locations with high waves, strong winds and brackish water.

The research is taking place at the Fieldlab Green Economy Westvoorne of the Oostvoornse Lake near the Maasvlakte. Key research themes are the robustness of the floating systems in the event of waves and strong winds, the energy yield and the effects on underwater life and biodiversity.

Experts from the consortium have selected SolarFloat to build one of the three 50 kWp floating systems that will be tested during the research project. Their electrical performance, mechanical dynamic stability and ecological effects will be tested for a year.

The results are also important for innovative companies in our country that want to further improve their products in the field of solar energy. Water boards, municipalities, provinces, knowledge institutes and nature organisations are also interested in the research results that will help them to develop a vision for future applications of floating solar energy systems.