Customized Solutions for Long-Term Performance of Floating Solar Power Systems
Unlike conventional rooftop or ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) systems, floating solar power systems deploy PV modules on buoyant platforms over water bodies, significantly reducing land usage. However, the unique aquatic environment presents challenges such as accelerated equipment corrosion, which can compromise system efficiency and longevity. How can floating solar plants overcome these obstacles to ensure stable, high-performance operation? A range of tailored solutions has been developed to address these challenges.
Identifying Key Challenges and Implementing Targeted Solutions
Challenge 1: High Humidity Leading to Equipment Corrosion
Floating solar plants are typically installed on lakes, reservoirs, or ponds, exposing electrical components—such as PV modules, inverters, and cables—to prolonged moisture. This increases the risk of corrosion, shortening equipment lifespan and reducing power generation efficiency.
Solution: Anti-Corrosion Treatment + Preventive Maintenance
To mitigate these risks, specialized maintenance teams conduct regular anti-corrosion treatments on critical components, including inverters and combiner boxes. Additionally, routine inspections focus on floating structures and cable connections to identify potential failures early. Preventive maintenance minimizes equipment downtime and maximizes energy output.
Challenge 2: Large Project Area with Restricted Accessibility
Floating solar farms often cover expansive water surfaces, and their buoyant platforms introduce mobility challenges. Narrow walkways between floating modules make manual inspections difficult and pose safety hazards for maintenance personnel.
Solution: Hybrid Inspection Approach (Manual + Drone) + Safety Training
To optimize inspection efficiency, a combination of manual checks and drone-based infrared thermography is employed:
Manual inspections allow for detailed fault detection and immediate corrective actions.
Drone-based thermal imaging quickly identifies hotspots in PV modules, preventing energy losses due to defective cells.
Furthermore, comprehensive safety training—including emergency drills and the provision of life jackets and rescue equipment—ensures worker safety and uninterrupted plant operation.
Challenge 3: Frequent Soiling Due to Bird Droppings
Birds are naturally attracted to water bodies, leading to increased soiling from droppings on PV panels. If not cleaned promptly, this can cause:
Reduced sunlight absorption, lowering power generation.
Hotspot formation, which may damage cells or even trigger fires.
Solution: Customized Cleaning Strategies + Performance Analytics
A data-driven cleaning plan is implemented based on site-specific conditions:
Manual cleaning for targeted areas with heavy soiling.
Robotic cleaning systems for large-scale, automated maintenance.
Post-cleaning analysis reports are generated to track efficiency improvements, allowing plant operators to assess the impact of maintenance on energy yield.
Conclusion
The floating solar power system offers a sustainable alternative to traditional PV installations by utilizing underused water surfaces. However, their aquatic environment demands specialized maintenance strategies to combat corrosion, accessibility limitations, and soiling. By integrating anti-corrosion measures, hybrid inspection techniques, and AI-assisted cleaning systems, operators can enhance system durability and maximize energy production. These tailored solutions ensure that floating solar plants remain a reliable and efficient component of the renewable energy landscape.
