Renewable energies have become increasingly relevant in the current context, in which sustainability and the search for clean and efficient alternatives are global priorities. In the midst of this scenario, an innovative technology is calling the attention of specialists: floating solar platforms that track the sun, which promise a revolution in the energy sector.
Recently, an article published on the BBC Future website, entitled “The Floating Solar Platforms that Follow the Sun”, revealed the potential of these structures to increase the efficiency of solar energy and extend its reach in different geographical areas.
Traditionally, installing solar panels required large areas of land, often located in sunny, uninhabited regions. However, floating solar platforms present a promising solution to overcome these limitations. Built on water reservoirs, these floating structures have solar panels that follow the path of the sun throughout the day.
One of the main benefits of floating solar platforms is the maximum use of sunlight. By following the movement of the sun, these solar panels are able to generate energy for a longer period of time during the day when compared to conventional fixed systems. This optimization increases the production of electrical energy, making it more efficient and profitable.
In addition, the location of floating solar platforms on bodies of water has other significant advantages. Water evaporation is reduced, resulting in less water loss and helping to preserve valuable water resources. In addition, the presence of floating structures in reservoirs and lakes can help prevent algae proliferation and improve water quality.
In Holland, a shiny circular island that floats was built. It is covered by dozens of solar panels that glow brightly. These panels are solar and have the ability to meticulously track sunlight, capturing as much of the sun's rays as possible. Named Proteus, it is among the first in the world to follow the path of the Sun. Floating on the Oostvoornse Meer, the island is covered by 180 mobile solar panels with an installed capacity of 73 kilowatts of peak power (kWp).
Floating solar platform technology is already being implemented in various parts of the world, including countries such as Japan, China, the United States and Brazil. This innovative approach has the potential to bring solar energy to previously inaccessible areas such as lakes, ponds and other bodies of water, thereby expanding the availability of sustainable energy sources.
The rise of floating solar technology represents one of the latest trends in the revolutionary expansion of photovoltaic solar electricity in recent years. Over the past decade, solar PV capacity has increased impressively, nearly 12-fold, from 72GW in 2011 to 843GW in 2021. This remarkable evolution has seen solar power account for 3.6% of global electricity generation, compared to just 0.03% in 2006. To further drive this growth, the significant price drop in solar panels has been a crucial factor. Currently, solar energy is considered the most accessible and economical source of energy in the world.
However, technical and economic challenges still need to be overcome for large-scale implementation. The maintenance and monitoring of these floating platforms require efficient and sustainable solutions. Furthermore, the financial viability of these projects must be evaluated in comparison to other renewable energy options.
Despite these obstacles, floating solar platform technology represents a promising advance towards sustainable energy. With the ability to increase solar energy efficiency and overcome geographic constraints, these floating structures could become a key part of the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
As the demand for renewable energy continues to grow, it is critical to invest in research and development in this area. Floating solar platforms that track the sun are an exciting example of this innovation, offering the promise of a more sustainable world, powered by an unlimited and clean source of energy: the sun.
