A floating solar power plant refers to a solar power plant set up on a water body such as a lake, river, reservoir, or sea. This not only conserves land but also increases the efficiency of the photovoltaic module. In many parts of India, there is a scarcity of cultivable land which increases the need for floating solar plants. Even areas with barren land may have undulating surfaces. In some places, setting up a solar farm is economically unviable. So, the solution for this issue is to set up solar farms on water bodies. India has an abundance of large water bodies such as reservoirs, lakes, rivers, and even oceans, which makes it convenient to install floating solar power plants. Here are some of the reasons why floating solar power plants can be extremely profitable:
Enhanced Efficiency
Solar cell efficiency is the conversion of the sun’s energy into electricity through photovoltaics (PV). And according to the data, floating PV is known to be around 11% more efficient as compared to terrestrial solar panels such as a rooftop solar power plant. This is because of the temperature reduction effect in the water.
Eco-Friendly
With floating solar panels, we can also help retain a large amount of water by offering shade to the water body and thus reducing evaporation. Other than this, the shade offered by the panels also improves water quality as it makes it more potable for drinking purposes. Moreover, it also cools down the water which leads to reduced growth of water weeds as they require sunlight for photosynthesis. Also, the ecology of the water body will not be greatly affected by setting up a floating solar power plant.
Low Capital Cost
Land acquisition is one of the biggest expenses when it comes to setting up a solar farm. But in the case of a floating solar farm, acquiring a water body would not be so expensive. Moreover, no additional expenses such as leveling, upkeep, and maintenance, would be required. Overall, setting up a solar power farm on a water body will cost much lesser as compared to the cost of power.
Security
Another benefit of setting up a floating solar power plant is that it offers enhanced security. This is because the risk of theft and vandalism is less. Since floating solar plants can be only accessed by a pontoon bridge or boat, it ensures better security for the panels.
Consistent Power Generation
India is an ideal country for solar energy. So having a solar power plant here is convenient and viable. Despite the scarce water level, a floating solar power plant ensures that power production still continues without any interruptions. Since solar panels work on solar energy, the amount of water available does not really affect the power generation and it can continue unabated.
Based on these factors, various companies like AMP Energy India, a leading solar power company in India, are introducing floating solar farms in the country, helping us to make use of this clean and renewable power with an endless supply.