Solar power has boomed in recent years amid a global push for renewable energy. While ground-mounted solar panels are the most common way to harness solar energy. There is another option that is becoming more popular: floating solar. The power generation system uses large bodies of water to build floating solar cells. We can capture enough solar energy without the need for land.
What is floating solar and how does it work?
The floating solar, also known as floating photovoltaic (FPV), is a type of solar panel mounted on a floating structure.
Floating solar systems are commonly used in reservoirs, lakes and other large man-made bodies of water. The main advantage of FPV is that it uses unused space on the water's surface. It does not occupy land resources.
The solar panels are firmly attached to the buoyant structure. We let them to float in bodies of water and get plenty of sunlight throughout the year. The generated solar power is transferred to a central inverter before passing through an underwater cable to power equipment on shore. The power of the inverter is first sent to the transformer for step-down. The power will be fed to the transmission system for transmission to the end user.
Deploying FPVs in solar waters is a win-win situation. When the panels stop too much heat from seeping into the water. They are cooled to increase energy productivity.
How does a floating solar system work?
Components of the
floating solar system
Photovoltaic modules: actual solar panels take solar energy and convert it into usable electricity.
Floater: this is a series of interconnected plastic rafts on which solar panels sit.
Mooring systems - anchors: these anchors provide support for solar panels floating on the water, from the bottom of the water. Common types are vertical load anchors, towed anchors and suction anchors.
Mooring systems - mooring line: This is the line that connects the solar panel floater and the anchor underneath. The strength of the mooring line depends on the weight of the solar panels that need to be supported.
Combo box: This is where all the solar panel output on the array is gathered so that it can be fed to the central inverter.
Central Inverter: this is a huge component of the FPV that converts DC to AC for transmission.
Transformers: transformers reduce power and facilitate transmission.
Wiring: These are the connections for integrated solar panels, combo boxes, central inverters and transformers.
Transmission system: This is the inland connector used to transmit power to where it is needed.
Floating walkway: an access point for solar panels from the inland side. This is crucial when solar panels need servicing.
Features of floating solar energy
The utility model relates to a floating solar panel device, which comprises a solar module, a rust-proof material, a vertical frame and a horizontal frame, a buoyant body, a detecting foot pedal and a component mounting assembly. Solar panels need to be high-humidity, dust-proof, lead-free, and well-protected from water. The buoyancy is made of polyethylene and can hold up to 2.5 times its weight. The structure of the floating body is coated with magnesium alloy, which has strong corrosion resistance.