Floating Solar Photovoltaic Power Plant: Alternative source for Solar Power Generation

Abstract

Electricity demand throughout the world seems to double by 2050 [1]. The floating solar photovoltaic

power plant is one of the modern techniques for solar power generation and has quite a few benefits.

Due to which it has been able to grab a range of attractions. Not only with power generation, has the

mechanism assisted in decreasing the phenomena of evaporation. Despite the interest, till now solar

energy production and usage covers a very thin proportion of global energy consumption. The reason

associated may be with the long-term usage of the land resources. Hence, the alternative method for

solar energy generation is seen in the form of floating solar photovoltaic power plants on aquatic

resources such as reservoirs, irrigation ponds, wastewater treatment plants, fish farms, and dams. This

research paper will be based on analysis for the studies related to possibilities of the use of floating solar

based photovoltaic system as the source of solar power generation. It will further compare the positive

aspects of using water resources as the area for solar power generation to the land resources.

Moreover, In the long run the study can be based on the better option for the distinctive design criteria

and its existing structures.

Background and Introduction

The demand for renewable energy sources is increasing tremendously throughout the world. Global

economic prosperity and rapid population growth exert a lot of pressure on the energy and water

supply. The increasing energy demand cannot be met only by conventional energy sources as they are
rapidly depleting and are also a serious threat to the environment [2]. The concept of floating solar

photovoltaic system is not to be limited and bounded by the land and size conditions move a step ahead

towards the water spaces utilization functioning with similar benefits as traditional solar. Floating solar

generates more electricity than ground-mount and rooftop (solar) systems because of the cooling effect

of water. It also reduces evaporation and algae growth by shading the water [3]. The clear objective of

floating solar panels is to free the land space while powering local towns or small cities, increasing

renewable energy usage and electricity savings. The important fact is the floating platforms are 100%

recyclable, utilizing high-density polyethylene which can withstand ultraviolet rays and corrosion [3].

Research Objectives

The theme of the paper is to familiarize yourself with the concepts of floating solar photovoltaic system

and its structure and design development. The several types of the solar generation method will be

discussed and compared thoroughly regarding the applications and its working principles. It will further

deal with the present status of the floating solar projects and look for the possibility of a better option

for the design criteria and modification in the existing structures and materials used for the

development of the design.

Problem Statement

Globally, the increasing population has created a significant rise in the use of natural resources such as

coal, oil, fossil fuels and natural gases. The similar excessive uses of land for settlement and agricultural

purposes have created a gap in the installation for solar power projects. Most regions across the globe

are blessed with at least one commercially viable source of renewable energy (wind, solar, hydro,
geothermal), and others have several such renewable sources. The alternative method for solar energy

generation is seen in the form of floating solar photovoltaic power plants on aquatic resources such as

reservoirs, irrigation ponds, wastewater treatment plants, fish farms, and dams.

Methodology and Expected Outcomes

The process of the study starts with the classifications of the Solar Photovoltaic installations according to

the area of utilization like canal top, roof top, ground-mounted, offshore based, and reservoir based

floating system. The components of the design of the floating solar photovoltaic system will be studied

thoroughly and the key design factors affecting the performance of the power generation are going to

be analyzed. The comparison of the various concepts for solar power generation and its advantages and

economic benefits will be listed out. Furthermore, In the long run the probable modification for the

design and materials used along with the commercialized existing products will be visualized and

modifications suggestion if any will be listed out for future research works.

REFERENCES:

[1] S. Evgeny, S. Evgeny, C. Erdem, S. Shanmuga Priya, K. Sudhakar, “Hybrid floating solar plant designs:

A review,” Energies (Basel), vol. 14,