energies

Article
Design and Installation of 500-kW Floating
Photovoltaic Structures Using High-Durability Steel
Sun-Hee Kim 1 , Seung-Cheol Baek 2 , Ki-Bong Choi 1 and Sung-Jin Park 3, *
1 Department of Architectural Engineering, Gachon University, 1342 Seongnamdaero, Sujeong-gu,
Seongnam-si 13120, Korea; shkim6145@gachon.ac.kr (S.-H.K.); kbchoi@gachon.ac.kr (K.-B.C.)
2 Department of Civil Engineering, Andong National University, 1375 Gyeongdong-ro (SongCheon-dong),
Andong 36729, Korea; civilb@anu.ac.kr
3 Department of Urban Construction Engineering, Incheon National University, (Song-do) 119 Academy-ro,
Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Korea
* Correspondence: park110290@gmail.com; Tel.: +82-32-835-8775




Received: 8 July 2020; Accepted: 16 September 2020; Published: 23 September 2020


Abstract: Countries around the world are expanding their investment in the new and renewable
energy industry for strengthening energy security, improving air pollution, responding to climate
change, and tackling energy poverty. In Korea, with the nuclear phase-out declaration in 2017,
the government has announced a policy to expand the ratio of new and renewable energy from
4.7% to 20% by 2030. This study examines a floating photovoltaic power generation system, which is
a new and renewable energy source. A structure composed of high-durability steel with excellent
corrosion resistance and durability was designed for constructing and installing a 500-kW-class
floating photovoltaic power generation structure. In addition, the safety of the structure was verified
through finite element analysis. By reviewing the safety of the structure with respect to the wave
height, the behavior of the structure was confirmed through the design wave height formula proposed
in the domestic standard. The verification result confirms that the stress is within the allowable design
limit. Moreover, the energy production of the floating photovoltaic generation system was measured
and compared with that of a terrestrial photovoltaic generation system, and that of the former was
shown to be 10% higher than that of the latter.

Keywords: new and renewable energy; floating photovoltaic power generation structure; finite
element analysis; safety; energy production

1. Introduction
The effects of environmental pollution and climate change due to the massive use of fossil fuels
are being felt across the planet. The primary countermeasure to reduce the use of fossil fuels is to
improve their efficiency of production, transfer, and consumption. However, it is more important
to protect sustainable energy sources by using new renewable energy that does not emit carbon
dioxide [1,2]. In addition, power generation using renewable energy is rapidly developing in response
to environmental issues and the need to secure sustainable energy. In Korea, photovoltaic generation
accounted for 11% of all renewable energy as of 2018, which represents a steady growth when compared
with 2% in 2010, as shown in Figure 1 [3].

Energies 2020, 13, 4996; doi:10.3390/en13194996 www.mdpi.com/journal/energies

Energies 2020, 13, 4996 2 of 14

Energies 2020, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 2 of 14

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(a)
(a) (b)
(b)
Figure1.
Figure
Figure 1.1.Korea
Korearenewable
Korea renewableenergy
renewable energysupply
energy supplystatus
supply statusin
status in2010
in 2010vs.
2010 vs.2018.
vs. 2018.(a)
2018. (a)2010;
(a) 2010;(b)
2010; (b)2018.
(b) 2018.
2018.

A
AAsolar
solarinstallation
solar installationsite
installation siteis
site isisnecessary
necessaryfor
necessary forconstructing
for constructingaaaphotovoltaic
constructing photovoltaicpower
photovoltaic powerplant
power plantand
plant andgenerating
and generating
generating
solar
solar power.
power. Therefore,
Therefore, floating
floating photovoltaic
photovoltaic powerpower generation
generation
solar power. Therefore, floating photovoltaic power generation has been developed to address has has
been been
developeddeveloped
to to
address address
issues
issues
such
issues such
assuch
limitedas limited
as limited
availability availability
of space
availability ofand
of space
space and environmental
environmental
environmental
and problems. problems.
In floating
problems. In floating
In floating photovoltaic
photovoltaic power
photovoltaic
power plants, the photovoltaic modules are installed on the surface of water. Such plants comprise aa
power
plants, plants,
the the
photovoltaic photovoltaic
modules modules
are are
installed installed
on the on
surfacethe surface
of water. of water.
Such Such
plants plants
comprise comprise
a floating
floatingstructure
structure
floating structure
on which on
onthe which
which thephotovoltaic
photovoltaic
the photovoltaic
modulesmodulesmodules
are fixed, are
are fixed,that
a buoy
fixed, aabuoy
buoy that
resists
that theresists thegravitational
gravitational
resists the gravitational
force of
force
the
force of the
of the structure,
structure, structure,
and a mooring and aa mooring
and mooring
system that system
system that
fixesthat fixes
thefixes the horizontal
horizontal
the horizontal
load. The load.
load. The floating
floating
The floating
structure structure
should
structure
should
firmly firmly
support support
the the
photovoltaic photovoltaic
modules modules
and and
provide provide
sufficient sufficient
resistance
should firmly support the photovoltaic modules and provide sufficient resistance to external forces resistance
to external to external
forces suchforces
as
such
windas
such as
loadswind
wind and loads
waves.
loads and waves.
and Moreover, Moreover, it
it shouldit secure
waves. Moreover, should secure
shouldlong-term long-term
durability
secure long-term durability against
against corrosion,
durability corrosion,
fatigue,
against corrosion,
fatigue,
etc., etc.,
because because
it is locatedit isonlocated
water, on water,
which is awhich
specialis a special
condition. condition.
In the case
fatigue, etc., because it is located on water, which is a special condition. In the case of a continuous Inofthe
a case of
continuous a continuous
structure,
structure, flexural
excessive
structure, excessive
excessive flexural
moment
flexural load moment
may be
moment load
load mayon
exerted
may bethe
be exerted on the
structural
exerted on the structural
members
structural members
duemembers due to
to water-surface
due to
water-surface
movement,
water-surface movement,
as movement,
depicted as depicted
in Figure
as depicted in Figure
2a, thereby
in Figure 2a, thereby
damaging
2a, thereby damaging
the structure.
damaging the structure.
Therefore,
the structure. Therefore,
for structural
Therefore, for
safety
for
structural
and safety
constructability, and constructability,
the structure must the
be structure
designed must
as a be
unit. designed
In as
addition,
structural safety and constructability, the structure must be designed as a unit. In addition, it must a
it unit.
must In
be addition,
connected it must
with
be connected
be connected
hinges to minimize withthe
with hinges
hinges to minimize
transfer
to minimize
of flexuralthe the transfer
moment
transferso ofof flexural
that flexural moment
the structure
moment canso so that the
sensitively
that the structure
structure
react to watercan
can
sensitively
surface reactto
movement,
sensitively react towater
water
as surface
depicted
surface movement,
inmovement,
Figure 2b. as asdepicted
depictedin inFigure
Figure2b.
2b.

(a)
(a)

(b)
(b)
Figure2.2.Behavior
Figure Behaviorof
Behavior ofthe
thefloating
floatingstructure.
structure.(a)
(a)Continuous
Continuousstructural
structuralmembers;
members;(b)
(b)discontinuous
discontinuous
structuralmembers.
structural members.

Floatingphotovoltaic
Floating
Floating photovoltaicpower
photovoltaic powergeneration
power generationsystems
generation systemsgained
systems gained popularity
gained popularityin
popularity in 2007,
in 2007,both
2007, bothdomestically
both domestically
domestically
and
and internationally.
and internationally.
internationally. The The
Thefirst first commercialized
firstcommercialized
commercialized floating
floating
floating photovoltaic
photovoltaic
photovoltaic powerpower
plant
power plant
waswas
plant was installed
installed by SPG
installed by
by
SPG Solar
Solar
SPG Solar
in July in2007
in Julyin
July 2007 in aa reservoir
a reservoir
2007 in reservoir
in the Farin the
in the Far
FarFarm,
Niente Niente
Niente Farm,
Napa
Farm, Napa
Valley,
Napa Valley, California,
California,
Valley, California,
USA. ThisUSA. USA.
system This
Thisis
system
presumed is presumed
to be to
installed be installed
to suppress to suppress
evaporation evaporation
from the from the
reservoir reservoir
[4,5].
system is presumed to be installed to suppress evaporation from the reservoir [4,5]. In Asia, the first In [4,5].
Asia, In
the Asia,
first the first
floating
floatingphotovoltaic
photovoltaic
floating photovoltaic powergeneration
power generation
power generation system
system system
was wasinstalled
installed
was installed inaareservoir
in a reservoir
in reservoir
in Aichi,inAichi,
in Aichi,Japan,
Japan, Japan,
in August inAugust
in August
2007.
2007.
In this In this
system, system,
the the
angle angle
of of inclination
inclination of the of the installed
installed photovoltaic
photovoltaic modules
modules was was
10 ◦ , 10°,
which which
has has
the
2007. In this system, the angle of inclination of the installed photovoltaic modules was 10°, which has
the
same same
effecteffect as
as being being installed
installed ◦
at
at 30at on30° on land towing to the various effects of the water surface
the same effect as being installed 30°land towing
on land to the
towing tovarious effects
the various of theofwater
effects surface
the water [4,6].
surface
[4,6]. Majid et al. installed 80-W photovoltaic panels on a pond
[4,6]. Majid et al. installed 80-W photovoltaic panels on a pond and compared the amount of and compared the amount of
electricity generated
electricity generated from from the the installed
installed panels
panels withwith that
that of of general
general photovoltaic
photovoltaic panels. panels. Their
Their
experimental findings confirmed that the floating photovoltaic panels
experimental findings confirmed that the floating photovoltaic panels generated 15.5% more power generated 15.5% more power
Energies 2020, 13, 4996 3 of 14

Majid et al. installed 80-W photovoltaic panels on a pond and compared the amount of electricity
generated from the installed panels with that of general photovoltaic panels. Their experimental
findings confirmed that the floating photovoltaic panels generated 15.5% more power [7]. Dai et al.
designed and constructed a 100-kW-class floating photovoltaic power generation system composed
of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) in the Teggeh reservoir, Singapore, in 2018 [8]. Santafé et al.
developed a floating photovoltaic cover system (FPCS) to reduce evaporation in reservoirs and generate
renewable electricity. The FPCS structure, which was configured and implemented over the entire
surface, could generate 425,000 kWh/year of renewable energy and simultaneously prevented the
evaporation of 5000 m3 of water per year (25% of the reservoir storage capacity) [9]. After examining
several design methods for installing a floating platform, Cazzaniga et al. proposed an efficient
and economical design method. In particular, they applied tracking and cooling functions to the
floating platform, and after analyzing the structure using a flat reflector, confirmed that the cost of
generating electricity could be lowered [10]. In Korea, systematic research on floating photovoltaic
power generation commenced in 2009. As seen in Figure 3, K-water installed a prototype at the Juam
Dam in 2009, and showcased a technology called solar-tracking floating photovoltaic power generation
at the Hapcheon Dam in 2013. Choi and Lee [11] verified the stress applied to floating photovoltaic
power generation structures by the structural material through finite element analysis, and analyzed the
structural behavior of solar-tracking floating photovoltaic power generation structures through wind
tunnel and durability tests. Lee et al. designed a floating photovoltaic power generation structure using
fiber-reinforced polymer plastic (FRP) and confirmed the structural safety of the designed structure
through finite element analysis. In addition, after constructing and installing the designed floating
photovoltaic power generation structure, the amount of power generated by the structure on land and
water were compared [12]. In 2013, Kim et al. designed and constructed a floating photovoltaic power
generation structure using FRP members on the intake channel of a thermal power plant and confirmed
the safety of the structure through finite element analysis. In addition, the costs of the structural
materials required for structural member changes were comparatively analyzed [13]. By installing a
3.5-MW-class floating photovoltaic power generation structure on a thermal power plant ash pond,
Choi et al. compared the amount of power generated between structures installed on the thermal power
plant ash pond and on the intake channel; their findings indicated that the structure on the thermal
power plant ash pond generated approximately 1.38 times more power than that installed on the intake
channel [2]. Jang et al. examined the structural behavior of a solar-tracking floating photovoltaic
structure through finite element analysis; their experimental measurement result of the deformation of
structural members by surface waves after construction confirmed that the maximum generated stress
was within the allowable limit [14]. Ryu and Lee utilized computational fluid dynamics to analyze the
effect of the wind direction and angle of inclination on the wind load, and confirmed that the wind
load increased with the increase in the angle of inclination of the photovoltaic panel to the ground [15].
Oh and Jang investigated the installation angle of offshore photovoltaic power generation systems. By
modeling a photovoltaic panel and simulating the changes in the amount of power generated by the
photovoltaic array in accordance with the amount of daily light, they confirmed that when installing a
photovoltaic structure on water, a panel installation angle of 20◦ generated more power than that of
30–36◦ suggested for land [16].
Floating photovoltaic power generation is similar to terrestrial photovoltaic power generation.
However, as the power plant is installed on floating photovoltaic modules, it is necessary to understand
the floating structure technology, which is a critical technical variable. In terrestrial photovoltaic power
plants, only the load generated by the empty weight and the weather conditions are considered with
respect to the load on the photovoltaic module. As the load is also transferred to the ground through
the structures, the load transfer structure is not complicated; hence, safety can be secured through
a simple structural design alone. However, for floating photovoltaic power generation, the load on
the photovoltaic module is a combination of loads generated by the weather conditions and fluid
loads generated by surface displacement; the loads are divided into gravitational and horizontal
plant ash pond generated approximately 1.38 times more power than that installed on the intake
channel [2]. Jang et al. examined the structural behavior of a solar-tracking floating photovoltaic
structure through finite element analysis; their experimental measurement result of the deformation
of structural members by surface waves after construction confirmed that the maximum generated
stress was
Energies within
2020, 13, 4996 the allowable limit [14]. Ryu and Lee utilized computational fluid dynamics 4 of to
14
analyze the effect of the wind direction and angle of inclination on the wind load, and confirmed
that the wind load increased with the increase in the angle of inclination of the photovoltaic panel to
loads, delivered to the buoys and mooring system, respectively. In addition, as the floating structure
the ground [15]. Oh and Jang investigated the installation angle of offshore photovoltaic power
supporting the photovoltaic modules is mechanically connected and there are multiple photovoltaic
generation
Energies 2020, systems. By modeling
13, x FOR PEER REVIEW a photovoltaic panel and simulating the changes in the amount 4 of of
14
module arrays, all the horizontal loads on the power plant are transferred to the mooring system.
power generated by the photovoltaic array in accordance with the amount of daily light, they
Therefore,
Floating it isphotovoltaic
difficult to clearly
power evaluate
generationthe is
load stateto
similar onterrestrial
the power plant, and structural-behavior
confirmed that when installing a photovoltaic structure on water, aphotovoltaic powerangle
panel installation generation.
of 20°
prediction
However, becomes
as the inaccurate,
power plant necessitating
is installed reviews
on on
floating various aspects.modules, it is necessary to
photovoltaic
generated more power than that of 30–36° suggested for land [16].
understand the floating structure technology, which is a critical technical variable. In terrestrial
photovoltaic power plants, only the load generated by the empty weight and the weather conditions
are considered with respect to the load on the photovoltaic module. As the load is also transferred to
the ground through the structures, the load transfer structure is not complicated; hence, safety can
be secured through a simple structural design alone. However, for floating photovoltaic power
generation, the load on the photovoltaic module is a combination of loads generated by the weather
conditions and fluid loads generated by surface displacement; the loads are divided into
gravitational and horizontal loads, delivered to the buoys and mooring system, respectively. In
addition, as the floating structure supporting the photovoltaic modules is mechanically connected
and there are multiple photovoltaic module arrays, all the horizontal loads on the power plant are
(a) (b)
transferred to the mooring system. Therefore, it is difficult to clearly evaluate the load state on the
power plant,
Figure and structural-behavior
3. Floating photovoltaic power
photovoltaic prediction
powergeneration
generation becomes
structure.
structure. inaccurate,
(a)Structure
(a) StructureininJuamnecessitating
Juam Dam;
Dam; (b)(b) reviews
in on
structure
structure
in
various Hapcheon
aspects.
Hapcheon Dam.
Dam.
In this study, we verify the structural stability of a floating photovoltaic power generation
In
structure thiscomposed
study, we verify the structural steel
of high-durability stability of a floating
through photovoltaic
numerical analysis. power generation
Suitable structure
materials were
composed of high-durability steel through numerical analysis. Suitable
selected by analyzing the economic feasibility of the floating photovoltaic power generation materials were selected by
analyzing
structure withthe economic
respect tofeasibility of the floating
the structural material.photovoltaic
To predict the power generation
behavior structure
of the structurewith
onrespect
water,
to the structural material. To predict the behavior of the structure on water, the behavior
the behavior of the structural material was verified through finite element analysis. Furthermore, we of the structural
material
examinedwas theverified through
safety of finite element
the structure under analysis.
wave-height Furthermore, we examined
impact through the safety
finite element of the
analysis.
structure
Based on under wave-height
the obtained results,impact throughthe
we fabricate finite elementand
structure, analysis. Based and
constructed on the obtained
installed results,
a floating
we fabricate the structure, and constructed and installed a floating photovoltaic
photovoltaic power generation structure in a reservoir located in Ganghwa-gun, Incheon, as shown power generation
structure
in Figure in 4. a reservoir located in Ganghwa-gun, Incheon, as shown in Figure 4.

Figure 4.
Figure 4. Location
Location of the photovoltaic
of the photovoltaic power
power generation
generation structure.
structure.

2. Economic Feasibility
2. Economic Feasibility Analysis
Analysis
We
Weexamined
examinedthe theeconomic
economic feasibility of the
feasibility floating
of the photovoltaic
floating power
photovoltaic generation
power structures
generation with
structures
respect to the to
with respect structural materials.
the structural The material
materials. properties
The material of high-durability
properties steel, aluminum,
of high-durability and FRP
steel, aluminum,
are summarized in Table 1. Among the building materials used recently for floating
and FRP are summarized in Table 1. Among the building materials used recently for floating photovoltaic power
generation structures in Korea, high-durability steel (i.e., PosMac—POSCO magnesium
photovoltaic power generation structures in Korea, high-durability steel (i.e., PosMac—POSCO aluminum
alloy coatingaluminum
magnesium product), aluminum,
alloy coating and FRP were
product), selected and
aluminum, and compared by examining
FRP were selected the number
and compared by
examining the number of unit structural members and buoys required to build a 500-kW-class
floating photovoltaic power generation structure, and the material cost. The economic feasibility
analysis results indicated that FRP was more expensive than aluminum and high-durability steel
was less expensive. As high-durability steel is heavier than FRP and aluminum in terms of the unit
material weight, the number of buoys required is higher than in the case of aluminum and FRP.
Energies 2020, 13, 4996 5 of 14

of unit structural members and buoys required to build a 500-kW-class floating photovoltaic power
generation structure, and the material cost. The economic feasibility analysis results indicated that FRP
was more expensive than aluminum and high-durability steel was less expensive. As high-durability
steel is heavier than FRP and aluminum in terms of the unit material weight, the number of buoys
required is higher than in the case of aluminum and FRP. However, the number of high-durability
steel unit structural members required to install a 500-kW-class floating photovoltaic power generation
structure is less than those of FRP and aluminum. Accordingly, the total cost of the structural system
for constructing a 500-kW-class floating photovoltaic power generation plant using high-durability
steel members was confirmed to be 38.19 times lower than that of aluminum and 30.27 times lower
than that of FRP. Therefore, it was estimated that high-durability steel is the most cost-effective material
for building a 500-kW-class floating photovoltaic power plant. Table 2 shows the economic feasibility
evaluation results.

Table 1. Mechanical properties of materials.

Young’s Modulus Tensile Strength Shear Strength Unit Weight (G,

Description
(E, GPa) (ft , MPa) (fv , MPa) kN/m3 )
High-durability steel 205.00 235.00 135.00 77.00
Aluminum 69.60 103.03 61.82 26.49
FRP 33.28 201.29 26.40 18.42

Table 2. Review of the economic feasibility of a floating photovoltaic power generation structure with
respect to the structural material.

Classification High-Durability Steel Aluminum FRP

Unit cost of structural member ($) 313 583 600
Number of units 161 161 161
Structure weight (kN) 2.628 1.716 1.569
Cost of the structural members ($) 53,935 117,396 107,333
Buoy (PE + lightweight filler) (L) 536 350 320
Total buoys (L) 86,296 56,350 51,520
Cost of the buoys ($) 21,574 14,088 12,880
Other expenses 29,167 27,500 27,500
Construction cost (structure + mooring) 37,500 37,500 37,500
Total cost ($) 142,176 196,483 185,213

3. Design of 500-kW-Class Floating Photovoltaic System

3.1. Photovoltaic Power Generation Structure

3.1.1. Structural Member

Concrete, which is a traditional construction material, is difficult to use for floating structural
members in terms of the economic feasibility and constructability due to its empty weight. However,
steel can be used as a structural member by processing it into H-, L-, and C-type thin-plate structural
members. In this study, a high Zn-Mg-Al ternary high-corrosion-resistant alloy-plated steel sheet was
used. This steel sheet was fabricated with different plating layers. Figure 5 shows the composition
of the steel sheet. The alloy-plated steel sheet was plated with ternary Zn (94.5%), Mg (3%), and Al
(2.5%). Mg in the plated layer promotes the formation of a highly stable and dense corrosion product,
Simonkolleite, which is formed and maintained like a film on the surface of the plated layer, preventing
corrosion of the iron plate.
Energies 2020, 13, 4996 6 of 14
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Energies 2020,
2020,
Energies 13,
2020, xx FOR
13,13, FOR PEER
PEER
x FOR REVIEW
REVIEW
PEER REVIEW 66 of
of 14
14 14
6 of

Figure
Figure
Figure 5.
5. Composition
Figure
5. 5.
Composition of
Composition alloy
of of plated
alloy
alloy steel
plated
plated sheet.
steel
steel sheet.
sheet.

In the
the
InInthetheevent
event
event
eventthat
that
thatthethe
thatthe surface
surface
thesurface
surface of
of the
ofofthe
the alloy-plated
alloy-plated steel issteel
alloy-plated
the alloy-plated steel
steelis
abraded, abraded,
is is the upper
abraded,
abraded, the
the upper
plating
upper
the upperplating
layer
plating
platinglayer
is dissolved
layer
layer is
is is
dissolved
to cover
dissolved
dissolved to
the cover
toto
cover
coverthe
the cross-section,
cross-section, promoting
cross-section,
the cross-section, promoting
the growth
promoting
promoting the
the growth
of
the a stable
growth
growth of
ofofa stable
corrosion
a stable
a stable corrosion
product.
corrosion
corrosionproduct.
The
product. The
shape
product. The
Theshape
of the
shape
shape
of the
ofof
the structural
structural member
structural
the structuralmember
used inused
member
member this
used
usedin
in this
study
this
in study
is
study
this studyis displayed
displayed
is is in Figure
displayed
displayed in
ininFigure
6.Figure
Figure 6.
6. 6.

(a)
(a)(a) (b)
(b)(b)
Figure 6.6.
Figure
Figure Alloy-plated
6.Alloy-plated
Alloy-plated
6. Alloy-plated steel
steel
steel sheet
sheet
steel
sheet sheetmember.
member.
member.
member. (a)
(a) Shape Shape
(a)(a) alloyof
Shape
ofShape alloy
ofplated
alloy
of alloyplated
sheetsteel
plated
plated
steel steel sheet
sheet
steel sheet
members; members;
members;
(b) (b)
members;(b)(b)
dimensions
dimensions
dimensions
of alloy plated
dimensions of alloy
of of
alloy
steel plated
plated
sheet
alloy steel
steel sheet
sheet
cross-section
plated steel cross-section
cross-section
(mm).
sheet cross-section (mm).
(mm).
(mm).

3.1.2. Buoy
3.1.2. Buoy
3.1.2. Buoy
3.1.2. Buoy
The buoy
The buoy is is aa foamed
foamed product
product in in which
which aa hydrocarbon
hydrocarbon gas gas such
such as
as pentane
pentane or or butane
butane isis injected
injected
TheThebuoy
buoyis is
a foamed
a foamed product
product inin
which
which a hydrocarbon
a hydrocarbon gasgassuch
suchasas
pentane
pentane ororbutane
butane is is
injected
injected
into
into polystyrene resin, which is expanded with steam; the volume comprises 98% air and 2% expanded
into polystyrene resin, which is expanded with steam; the volume comprises 98% air and2%
into polystyrene
polystyrene resin,
resin, which
which is
is expanded
expanded with
with steam;
steam; the
the volume
volume comprises
comprises 98%
98% air
air and
and 2%2%
polystyrenepolystyrene
expanded (EPS), which is resin.
(EPS), whichEPSisisresin.
easilyEPSbreakable
is easily asbreakable
it is fabricated
as it by
is injecting hydrocarbon
fabricated by injecting
expanded
expandedpolystyrene
polystyrene(EPS),
(EPS),which
whichis isresin.
resin.EPS EPSis iseasily
easilybreakable
breakableasasit itis isfabricated
fabricatedbybyinjecting
injecting
gas into polystyrene,
hydrocarbon gas intowhich is a type which
polystyrene, of heat-accelerating
is aa type of plastic. Nevertheless,
heat-accelerating it is extensively
plastic. Nevertheless, usedit in
is
hydrocarbon
hydrocarbon gas
gas into polystyrene,
into polystyrene, which
which is is atype
type ofof
heat-accelerating
heat-accelerating plastic.
plastic. Nevertheless,
Nevertheless, it it
is is
domestic
extensively fishing
used and
in aquaculture
domestic due
fishing to
andits high buoyancy,
aquaculture due convenience
to its high of use,
buoyancy, and low cost.
convenience The ofbuoy
use,
extensively
extensively used
used inindomestic
domestic fishing
fishingandand aquaculture
aquaculture due
due toto
itsits
high
highbuoyancy,
buoyancy, convenience
convenience ofof
use,
use,
shown
and low incost.
Figure
The 7 buoy
has a shown
diameter in of ϕ 530
Figure and
77 has length of of
aa diameter 920φmm.530 and length of 920 mm.
and
andlowlowcost. The
cost. The buoy
buoy shown
shown ininFigure
Figure has
7 has diameter
a diameter ofofφφ 530 and
530 andlength
length ofof920 mm.
920 mm.

Figure
Figure 7.
7. High-density
Figure High-density
7. expanded
expanded
High-density polystyrene
polystyrene
expanded (EPS).
(EPS).
polystyrene (EPS).

3.2. Unit
3.2. Unit Module
Module Design
Design
3.2. Unit
3.2. UnitModule
ModuleDesign
Design
To
To design
design a photovoltaic
aa photovoltaic power
power generation
generation structure,
structure, the separation
the separation distance of
distance of the
the array
array was
was
ToTodesign
design photovoltaic
a photovoltaic power
power generation
generation structure, the
structure, separation
the separation distance
distanceofof
the
thearray
arraywaswas
obtained with
obtained with respect
respect totothethe
installation angle
installation of the
angle of photovoltaic
the module
photovoltaic using using
module Equation (1), as shown
Equation (1), as
obtained
obtained with
withrespect
respecttotothe theinstallation
installationangle
angleofofthe photovoltaic
the module
photovoltaic module using
usingEquation
Equation (1), asas
(1),
shown
shownin
shown Figure
inin
Figure
Figure 8. For
8. 8.
For
Forthe
thetheinstallation
installation
installationof the
ofof
the photovoltaic
thephotovoltaic
photovoltaicmodule,
module,
module,aa 20°
a20° angle
20° anglewas
angle was
wasapplied
applied
applied as
asas
Energies 2020, 13, 4996 7 of 14
Energies 2020, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 14

in Figure 8. For the installation of the photovoltaic module, a 20◦ angle was applied as suggested by
suggested by Oh and Jang [16]. We designed a 500-kW-class floating photovoltaic power generation
Oh and Jang [16]. We designed a 500-kW-class floating photovoltaic power generation structure with
structure with an allowable separation distance of 3000 mm for the array, obtained through Equation
an allowable separation distance of 3000 mm for the array, obtained through Equation (1). The floating
(1). The floating photovoltaic power generation unit structure was 6000 in length and 6164 mm in
photovoltaic power generation unit structure was 6000 in length and 6164 mm in width. The solar
width. The solar module installed in the unit structure had a capacity of 360 W and the number of
module installed inPEER
the unit structure had a capacity of 360 W and the number of modules was 12.
modules
Energies was
2020, 13, x12.
FORThe photovoltaic
REVIEW power generation unit structure comprises a solar module, 7 of 14
The photovoltaic power generation unit structure comprises a solar module, structure, and buoy,
structure, and buoy, as shown in Figure 9.
as shown in
suggested byFigure
Oh and 9. Jang [16]. We designed a 500-kW-class floating photovoltaic power generation
  ◦

structure with an allowable separation distance 3000−mm
 sinof180 α − for
β the array, obtained through Equation
d = l ×   was 6000 in length and 6164 mm (1)

(1). The floating photovoltaic power generation  unit
sin(structure
β) in
width. The solar module installed in the unit structure had a capacity of 360 W and the number of
where, Length
modulesl: was 12. ofThe
thephotovoltaic
longer-side of the photovoltaic
power generation module (mm); comprises
unit structure α: Installation angle
a solar of the
module,
photovoltaic
structure, andmodule; Solar azimuth
buoy, asβ:shown in Figureangle;
9. d: Allowable separation between the arrays (mm).

Figure 8. Separation distance.

sin 𝟏𝟖𝟎𝐨 − 𝛂 − 𝛃)
𝐝=𝐥× (1)
sin 𝛃)
where, 𝐥: Length of the longer-side of the photovoltaic module (mm); 𝛂: Installation angle of the
photovoltaic module; 𝛃: Solar azimuth
Figure
Figure 8.
angle; 𝐝: Allowable
Separation
8. Separation distance.
separation between the arrays (mm).
distance.

sin 𝟏𝟖𝟎𝐨 − 𝛂 − 𝛃)
𝐝=𝐥× (1)
sin 𝛃)
where, 𝐥: Length of the longer-side of the photovoltaic module (mm); 𝛂: Installation angle of the
photovoltaic module; 𝛃: Solar azimuth angle; 𝐝: Allowable separation between the arrays (mm).

(a)

(a)
(b)
Figure 9. Floating photovoltaic system. (a)
(a) Unit
Unit module;
module; (b)
(b) side view.

3.3. Finite Element

3.3. Finite Element Analysis
Analysis

3.3.1. Modeling
3.3.1. Modeling
We examined the floating photovoltaic power(b) generation structure using a finite element analysis
We examined the floating photovoltaic power generation structure using a finite element
program to verify the structural safety. For finite element analysis,
Figure 9. Floating photovoltaic system. (a) Unit 3D(b)
module; analysis was performed using
side view.
analysis program to verify the structural safety. For finite element analysis, 3D analysis was
MIDAS Civil Ver. 2012, a universal structural analysis program [17]. We applied a 3D frame of PosMac
performed using MIDAS Civil Ver. 2012, a universal structural analysis program [17]. We applied a
for the
3.3. structural
Finite Elementmember
Analysis(Figure 10a) and a plate element for the photovoltaic modules (Figure 10b).
3D frame of PosMac for the structural member (Figure 10a) and a plate element for the photovoltaic
The connecting part was assumed to be connected through hinges. The reaction force according to the
modules (Figure 10b). The connecting part was assumed to be connected through hinges. The
3.3.1. Modeling
displacement using the elastic spring coefficient was applied as the boundary condition.
reaction force according to the displacement using the elastic spring coefficient was applied as the
We examined
boundary condition.the floating photovoltaic power generation structure using a finite element
analysis program to verify the structural safety. For finite element analysis, 3D analysis was
performed using MIDAS Civil Ver. 2012, a universal structural analysis program [17]. We applied a
3D frame of PosMac for the structural member (Figure 10a) and a plate element for the photovoltaic
modules (Figure 10b). The connecting part was assumed to be connected through hinges. The
Energies 2020, 13, 4996 8 of 14
Energies 2020, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 14

Energies 2020, 13, x FOR PEER(a)

REVIEW (b) 8 of 14

Figure10.
Figure 10.Modeling.
Modeling.(a)
(a)Frame;
Frame;(b)
(b)photovoltaic
photovoltaicmodule.
module.

3.3.2.
3.3.2.Load
Loadand
andBoundary
BoundaryConditions
Conditions
As
Asshown
shownininFigure
Figure11,
11,the
theboundary
boundaryconditions
conditionsapplied
appliedininthe
theanalysis
analysiswere
wereassumed
assumedto tobebeaa
simple support for the buoy installation position. The combined loads of the empty-weight,
simple support for the buoy installation position. The combined loads of the empty-weight, wind wind load,
and snow
load, andload
snowofload
the structure were utilized
of the structure as the load
were utilized as theconditions. The structure
load conditions. in Figure in
The structure 11 Figure
includes 11
304 nodes and 250 elements. For the wind load and snow load applied in the analysis,
includes 304 nodes and 250 elements. For the wind load and snow load applied in the analysis, the the design
wind velocity
design windand snow and
velocity load snow
were calculated
load wereusing Equations
calculated (2) Equations
using and (3), respectively, referring
(2) and (3), to the
respectively,
Korean Building Code and Commentary (2016) [18]. The wind
referring to the Korean(a)Building Code and Commentary (2016) [18]. The(b)load and snow load obtained using
wind load and snow load
Equations (2) and (3) were 50.85 m/s and 0.37 kN/m 2 , respectively.
obtained using Equations (2) and (3) were 50.85 m/s and 0.37 kN/m , respectively.
2
Figure 10. Modeling. (a) Frame; (b) photovoltaic module.
Vz = V0 · Kzr · Kzt · Iw (2)
3.3.2. Load and Boundary Conditions
where V0 is the basic design wind velocity, Kzr is the velocity pressure exposure coefficient, Kzt is
As shown in Figure 11, the boundary conditions applied in the analysis were assumed to be a
the topographic factor, and Iw is the importance factor. Table 3 provides the values of the wind load
simple support for the buoy installation position. The combined loads of the empty-weight, wind
variables used in the calculation.
load, and snow load of the structure were utilized as the load conditions. The structure in Figure 11
includes 304 nodes and 250 elements. SfFor
= Cthe wind load and snow load applied in the analysis, the
b · Ce · Ct · Cs · Is · Sg (3)
design wind velocity and snow load were calculated using Equations (2) and (3), respectively,
referring
where Cb to Korean
is the roof Building
snow CodeCand
load factor, Commentary
e is the (2016)C[18].
exposure factor, The
t is the wind load coefficient,
temperature and snow loadIs is
obtained using Equations (2) and (3) were 50.85 m/s and 0.37 kN/m 2, respectively.
the importance factor, and Cs is the steepness factor. The snow load variables are given in Table 4.

Figure 11. Boundary conditions.

𝐕𝐳 = 𝐕𝟎 ⋅ 𝐊 𝐳𝐫 ⋅ 𝐊 𝐳𝐭 ⋅ 𝐈𝐰 (2)
where V0 is the basic design wind velocity, Kzr is the velocity pressure exposure coefficient, Kzt is the
topographic factor, and Iw is the importance factor. Table 3 provides the values of the wind load
variables used in the calculation.
𝐒𝐟 = 𝐂𝐛 ⋅ 𝐂𝐞 ⋅ 𝐂𝐭 ⋅ 𝐂𝐬 ⋅ 𝐈𝐬 ⋅ 𝐒𝐠 (3)
where Cb is the roof snow load factor, Ce is the exposure factor, Ct is the temperature coefficient, Is is
the importance factor, and Cs is the steepness factor. The snow load variables are given in Table 4.
Figure
Figure 11. Boundary conditions
11. Boundary conditions..

Table 3. Wind load variables.

𝐕𝐳 = 𝐕𝟎 ⋅ 𝐊 𝐳𝐫 ⋅ 𝐊 𝐳𝐭 ⋅ 𝐈𝐰 (2)
Design Wind Velocity Pressure Exposure Topographic Factor Importance
whereDescription
V0 is the basicSpeed
design
(𝐕𝟎wind
, 𝐦/𝐬) velocity,Coefficient
Kzr is the velocity
(𝐊 𝐳𝐫 ) pressure exposure
(𝐊 𝐳𝐭 ) coefficient, K(𝐈
Factor zt is
𝐰)
the
topographic
Valuefactor, and Iw45is the importance factor.
1.13 Table 3 provides the 1.0values of the wind
1.0 load
variables used in the calculation.
𝐒𝐟 = 𝐂𝐛 ⋅ 𝐂𝐞 ⋅ 𝐂𝐭 ⋅ 𝐂𝐬 ⋅ 𝐈𝐬 ⋅ 𝐒𝐠 (3)
Energies 2020, 13, 4996 9 of 14

Table 3. Wind load variables.

Design Wind Velocity Pressure Exposure Importance

Description Topographic Factor (Kzt )
Speed (V0 , m/s) Coefficient (Kzr ) Factor (Iw )
Value 45 1.13 1.0 1.0
Energies 2020, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 9 of 14

Table 4.
Table Snow load
4. Snow load variables.
variables.
Snow Load Roof Snow Exposure Temperature Importance Gradient
Description Snow Load 2 Roof Snow
Description (Sg , kN/m ) Load Factor (CbExposure
LoadFactor ) Factor (Ce )Temperature
Factor (Ct ) Importance
Factor (Is ) Gradient
Factor (Cs )
(𝐒𝐠 , 𝐤𝐍/𝐦𝟐 ) Factor (𝐂𝐞 ) Factor (𝐂𝐭 ) Factor (𝐈𝐬 ) Factor (𝐂𝐬 )
Value 0.5 (𝐂 )
𝐛 0.7 0.8 1.2 1.2 0.91
Value 0.5 0.7 0.8 1.2 1.2 0.91
3.3.3. Finite Element Analysis Results
3.3.3. Finite Element Analysis Results
Figure 12 shows the results of the tensile, compressive, shear, and flexural stresses on the structure
Figure
obtained 12 shows
through finitethe results
element of the they
analysis; tensile,
are compressive,
summarized in shear,
Tableand
5. Itflexural stressesthat
was confirmed on the
the
structure obtained through finite element analysis; they are summarized in Table 5. It
maximum tensile, compressive, and flexural stresses of the structure obtained through finite element was confirmed
that the maximum
analysis were withintensile, compressive,
the allowable designand flexural
stress valuestresses of thesuggested
of 140 MPa structure obtained through
by the Korean finite
Building
element analysis were within the allowable design stress value of 140 MPa suggested
Code and Commentary. The shear stress was also confirmed to be within the suggested allowable by the Korean
Building Code
design stress andofCommentary.
value 80 MPa. Based The
on shear stressofwas
the results also
finite confirmed
element to be
analysis, wewithin
found the
thatsuggested
the safety
allowable design
factors of the stressstresses
different value of 80 MPa.
ranged fromBased
1.93 toon11.22.
the results of finite element analysis, we found
that the safety factors of the different stresses ranged from 1.93 to 11.22.

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

Figure
Figure 12. FEA
FEA results.
results. (a)
(a)Tensile
Tensile stress;
stress; (b)
(b) compressive stress; (c) shear stress; (d) flexural stress.

Table 5. Finite element analysis results.

Table 5. Finite element analysis results.
Maximum Stress Obtained Through Allowable Design
Classification Maximum Stress Obtained Through Allowable Design Safety Safety Factor
Factor (2)/(1)
Classification Finite Element Analysis (MPa) (1) Stress (MPa) (2)
Finite Element Analysis (MPa) (1) Stress (MPa) (2) (2)/(1)
Tensile stress 12.48 140 11.22
Tensile stress 12.48 140 11.22
Compressive stress 18.87 140 7.42
Compressive stress
Shear stress 18.87
28.63 80 140 2.797.42
Flexural stress
Shear stress 72.56
28.63 140 80 1.932.79
Flexural stress 72.56 140 1.93
4. Structural Safety Review of Floating Photovoltaic Power Generation Structure
4. Structural Safety
To confirm Review
the safety of Floating
of the Photovoltaicpower
floating photovoltaic Powergeneration
Generation Structure
structure against wave-height
impact,
To the stress of
confirm thesafety
the structure
of was
the verified
floatingwith respect to the
photovoltaic wavegeneration
power height through finite element
structure against
analysis. For impact,
wave-height the relationship between
the stress the windwas
of the structure velocity, reservoir
verified fetch, and
with respect wave
to the height,
wave thethrough
height Molitor
finite element analysis. For the relationship between the wind velocity, reservoir fetch, and wave
height, the Molitor equation presented in the KDS 54.00.00 dam design standard was employed [19].
The design wave height formula proposed by Molitor is represented as Equation (4). Variables
under different conditions were applied to this equation.
𝟒
Energies 2020, 13, 4996 10 of 14

equation presented in the KDS 54.00.00 dam design standard was employed [19]. The design wave
height formula proposed by Molitor is represented as Equation (4). Variables under different conditions
were applied to this equation.
√ √
4
Energies 2020, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW hw = 0.06 VF + 0.76 − 0.27 F 10 of (4)
14

where h𝐡w𝐰: wave height from trough to crest (m); V:

𝐕: wind velocity
velocity (m/s); 𝐅: fetch (km), length of the
(m/s); F:
surface on which wind can act (fetch).

4.1. Modeling
4.1. Modeling
To review
To review the
the structural
structural safety
safety ofof the
the floating
floating photovoltaic
photovoltaic power
power generation structure under
generation structure under
wave-height impact,
wave-height impact, we we applied
applied thethe displacement
displacement load load by
by superimposing
superimposing the the stresses
stresses generated
generated byby
external factors such as stresses and wind loads on the structural members due
external factors such as stresses and wind loads on the structural members due to water-surface to water-surface
movement, and
movement, and examined
examined thethe safety
safety ofof the
the structure
structure through
through finite
finite element
element analysis. The modeling
analysis. The modeling
was performed
was performedasas shown
shownin Figure 13. When
in Figure the straight
13. When distance distance
the straight from the ground
from theto the photovoltaic
ground to the
power generation structure was 0.5 km, the design wind velocity and wave height
photovoltaic power generation structure was 0.5 km, the design wind velocity and wave height of Ganghwa Island,
of
Ganghwa Island, where the photovoltaic generation structure was installed, were assumed 0.8
where the photovoltaic generation structure was installed, were assumed to be 39.55 m/s and m,
to be
respectively.
39.55 m/s and The
0.8 m,structure in Figure
respectively. 13 includes
The structure 6396 nodes
in Figure and 4700
13 includes elements.
6396 nodes and For theelements.
4700 analysis,
For the analysis, the displacement loads were applied in the central part (Figure 13a), front and 13b),
the displacement loads were applied in the central part (Figure 13a), front and rear parts (Figure rear
and side
parts parts13b),
(Figure (Figure
and13c).
side parts (Figure 13c).

(a) (b) (c)

Figure 13. Finite

Finite element
element analysis
analysis (review of wave-height impact). (a)
(a) Case
Case 1;
1; (b)
(b) case
case 2;
2; (c) case 3.

4.2. Finite
4.2. Finite Element
Element Analysis
Analysis Results
Results
By applying
By applying the
the displacement
displacement load
load for
for the
the design
design wave
wave height,
height, we
we examined
examined the
the safety
safety of
of the
the
floating photovoltaic
floating photovoltaic power
power generation
generation structure
structure under
under wave-height
wave-height impact
impact through
through finite
finite element
element
analysis. The review results showed that the stress values were within the allowable design
analysis. The review results showed that the stress values were within the allowable design value value of
of
140 MPa
140 MPa suggested
suggestedby bythe
theKorean
KoreanBuilding
BuildingCode andand
Code Commentary
Commentary [18],[18],
and confirmed a safety
and confirmed factor
a safety
of approximately 9% or less for the structure. Figure 14 shows the stress distribution of the
factor of approximately 9% or less for the structure. Figure 14 shows the stress distribution of the structure
with respect
structure torespect
with the wave height
to the waveand Tableand
height 6 summarizes the finite element
Table 6 summarizes the finiteanalysis
elementresults.
analysis results.
 By applying the displacement load for the design wave height, we examined the safety of the
floating photovoltaic power generation structure under wave-height impact through finite element
analysis. The review results showed that the stress values were within the allowable design value of
140 MPa suggested by the Korean Building Code and Commentary [18], and confirmed a safety
factor of approximately 9% or less for the structure. Figure 14 shows the stress distribution of
Energies 2020, 13, 4996
the
11 of 14
structure with respect to the wave height and Table 6 summarizes the finite element analysis results.

Energies 2020, 13, x FOR PEER(a)

REVIEW (b) 11 of 14

(c)

Figure 14. Stress

Stress distribution of
of the
the structure
structureaccording
accordingtotowave
waveheight.
height.(a)
(a)Case
Case1;1;(b)
(b)case
case
2; 2;
(c)(c) case
case 3.
3.
Table 6. Results of finite element analysis considering wave height.
Table 6. Results of finitefor
Stress element
Wave analysis considering wave height.
Stress FEA Allowable Safety Factor
Classification Stress Height Analysis
Stress for Wave (MPa) (1) Stress (MPa) (2)
Allowable (2)/(1)
(MPa) Stress FEA Safety Factor
Classification Stress Height Analysis Stress (MPa)
Tensile 2.59 (MPa)
129.16(1) (2)/(1)
1.083
Case 1 (MPa) (2)
Compressive 2.16 128.73 1.087
Tensile 2.59 129.16 1.083
Case 1 Tensile 5.51 132.08 1.059
Case 2 Compressive 2.16 128.73 140 1.087
Compressive 5.52 132.09 1.059
Tensile 5.51 132.08 1.059
Case 2 3 Tensile 1.50 128.07 140 1.093
Case Compressive 5.52 132.09 1.059
Compressive 1.27 127.84 1.095
Tensile 1.50 128.07 1.093
Case 3
5. Construction ofCompressive
the Floating Photovoltaic
1.27 Generation127.84
Structure 1.095

As the floating photovoltaic power generation structure was installed on the surface of water,
5. Construction of the Floating Photovoltaic Generation Structure
the work procedure should be simplified considering the site conditions. After the main members
wereAsprocessed and assembled,
the floating photovoltaicbasic
powerwork on the structure
generation forwas
structure installing theon
installed buoys and photovoltaic
the surface of water,
modules
the work had to be performed
procedure should beon the ground.
simplified Subsequently,
considering theconditions.
the site structure was floated
After on water
the main using
members
construction
were processedequipment. After the
and assembled, floating
basic workstructure was lifted
on the structure forand launched,
installing the unit
the buoys structures
and were
photovoltaic
assembled
modules hadand
to the driving device
be performed was
on the installed.
ground. Figure 15 depicts
Subsequently, the construction
the structure was floatedprocedure
on water of the
using
500-kW-class floating power generation structure composed of high-durability steel in
construction equipment. After the floating structure was lifted and launched, the unit structuresthe reservoir.
were assembled and the driving device was installed. Figure 15 depicts the construction procedure
of the 500-kW-class floating power generation structure composed of high-durability steel in the
reservoir.
 were processed and assembled, basic work on the structure for installing the buoys and photovoltaic
modules had to be performed on the ground. Subsequently, the structure was floated on water using
construction equipment. After the floating structure was lifted and launched, the unit structures
were assembled and the driving device was installed. Figure 15 depicts the construction procedure
of the2020,
Energies 500-kW-class
13, 4996 floating power generation structure composed of high-durability steel12inofthe
14
reservoir.

Energies 2020, 13, x FOR PEER

(a)REVIEW (b) 12 of 14

(c) (d)

(e) (f)

Figure 15.Construction
Figure15. Constructionprocedure
procedureofofthe
thefloating
floatingphotovoltaic
photovoltaicpower powergeneration
generationstructure.
structure.(a)
(a)Basic
Basic
frame
frameassembly;
assembly;(b) (b)photovoltaic
photovoltaicmodule
moduleinstallation;
installation;(c)
(c)lifting;
lifting;(d)
(d)launching;
launching;(e)
(e)assembly
assemblyon onwater
water
surface;
surface;(f)(f)completion.
completion.

6.6.Comparison
Comparisonof ofTerrestrial
TerrestrialPhotovoltaic
Photovoltaicand andFloating
FloatingPhotovoltaic
PhotovoltaicGeneration
GenerationSystems
Systems
The
The energy generated monthly by the floating photovoltaic generation system iscompared
energy generated monthly by the floating photovoltaic generation system is comparedwith with
that
thatofofthe
theterrestrial photovoltaic
terrestrial photovoltaic generation
generation system. According
system. According to the temperature
to the datadata
temperature presented by
presented
the Korea Meteorological Administration, the difference between the temperature
by the Korea Meteorological Administration, the difference between the temperature measured on measured on the
water surface
the water and onand
surface landonnear
landthenear
Incheon-si region is region
the Incheon-si approximately 1.5 ◦ C [2,12].
is approximately 1.5 The
°C measured
[2,12]. The
energy production data of the floating photovoltaic generation system are
measured energy production data of the floating photovoltaic generation system are compared compared with those of with
the
terrestrial photovoltaic generation system as given in Table 7. As can be seen in Table
those of the terrestrial photovoltaic generation system as given in Table 7. As can be seen in Table 7, 7, the energy
production
the energyof the floating
production ofphotovoltaic generation system
the floating photovoltaic from June
generation systemto August
from June2019
towas significantly
August 2019 was
higher than that of the terrestrial photovoltaic generation system. In May, the energy
significantly higher than that of the terrestrial photovoltaic generation system. In May, the energy production of the
floating photovoltaic generation system was lower than that of the terrestrial
production of the floating photovoltaic generation system was lower than that of the terrestrial photovoltaic generation
system owing generation
photovoltaic to wet-fog.system
Following
owingthetocomparison, it is found
wet-fog. Following thethat the energy
comparison, it efficiency
is found thatof the
the
floating photovoltaic generation system is a maximum of 36.43% higher than
energy efficiency of the floating photovoltaic generation system is a maximum of 36.43% higher than that of the terrestrial
that of the terrestrial photovoltaic generation system. Accordingly, it can be said that the floating
photovoltaic generation system is effective for energy production.

Table 7. Comparison of monthly energy production efficiencies.

Type of Photovoltaic Generation (kW) Operation Ratio {(②-

Month
Energies 2020, 13, 4996 13 of 14

photovoltaic generation system. Accordingly, it can be said that the floating photovoltaic generation
system is effective for energy production.

Table 7. Comparison of monthly energy production efficiencies.

Type of Photovoltaic Generation (kW)

Month Operation Ratio {(O-
2 O)/
1 O}
2 × 100 (%)
Terrestrial O
1 Floating O
2

January 46,294 52,589 11.97

February 45,854 57,039 19.60
March 59,660 68,075 12.36
April 53,580 69,230 22.60
May 66,937 52,589 −27.28
June 58,650 64,172 8.60
July 48,256 75,916 36.43
August 55,886 74,233 24.71
September - 43,968 -
October - 60,081 -
November - 28,041 -
December - 40,264 -

7. Conclusions
In this study, we reviewed the economic feasibility of floating photovoltaic power generation
structures with respect to the structural material, for installation on water. The review results confirmed
that high-durability steel was up to 3.5 times more cost effective than the compared materials for
constructing and installing a 500-kW-class photovoltaic power generation structure on the surface
of water. By reflecting the characteristics of the structure installed on water, cross-section design
was performed based on the results of numerical analysis, considering the special conditions on
water. Additionally, the finite element analysis performed for the design and structural safety was
checked by comparison with the requirements of the Korean Building Code. The design of the member
cross-section was completed by comparing the finite element analysis results for the structures with the
allowable stress for each structural material used. The results confirmed that the tensile, compressive,
flexural, and shear stresses, which are the stresses of the members applied to the structure, were within
the allowable domestic design stress values. In addition, the review results of the safety of the structure
under wave-height impact, through finite element analysis, indicated that the values were within
the allowable domestic design stress values, and a safety factor of approximately 9% or less was
confirmed for the structure. Considering the obtained results, 500-kW-class floating photovoltaic
power generation structure was constructed in Giljeong Reservoir in Ganghwa Island by applying
the design, assembly, and installation process of the floating photovoltaic power generation structure
composed of high-corrosion-resistant steel material. Finally, the energy production of the floating
photovoltaic generation system was compared with that of the terrestrial photovoltaic generation
system, and the energy efficiency of the former was found to be approximately 36.43% higher than that
of the latter.

Author Contributions: Conceptualization, S.-H.K. and S.-J.P.; formal analysis, S.-H.K. and S.-C.B.; data curation,
S.-C.B. and K.-B.C.; writing—original draft preparation, S.-H.K.; writing—review and editing, S.-H.K. and S.-J.P.
All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Funding: This research received no external funding.
Acknowledgments: This work was supported by Incheon National University (International Cooperative)
Research Grant in 2019.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Energies 2020, 13, 4996 14 of 14

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