EU recognises the potential of floating solar panels at sea
Solar energy is the fastest-growing energy source in the European Union. In 2021, the European solar energy market saw growth of 26 GW. Moreover, the cost of solar energy has decreased by 82% over the past decade, making it the most competitive form of electricity in many parts of the EU.
Thus, it goes without saying that Europe wants to further pursue solar energy as an alternative to fossil fuels. Within this context, the European Commission has recently launched its new solar energy strategy. This document also mentions floating solar panels at sea for the first time.
Space at sea
There is a commitment to innovative uses and multiple use of space to further develop the potential of solar energy. Specifically, with regard to floating solar panels at sea, the strategy mentions the following:
- Floating photovoltaic solutions allow the water surface to be used to generate solar energy. Offshore installations represent great potential in this regard.
- Further research is taking place to improve the durability of PV panels in marine environments, measure the impact on the environment and reduce maintenance costs.
- All interventions on the water surface must meet the conditions of the Water Framework Directive and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive.
Projects
A lot of research is currently being conducted into floating solar panels at sea. One such example is the MPVAqua project, facilitated by Blue Cluster. The consortium will test the developed concept at the maritime test platform Blue Accelerator in Ostend.
The test platform next to the Ostend harbour channel will be used by the Dutch company Oceans of energy to test their floating solar panel prototype. This trial set-up was developed within the context of the EU SCORES project.
In fact, a pilot installation with floating solar panels by French company HelioRec has already been installed in the port of Ostend. This installation was created within the DUAL Ports project and supplies power to a warehouse where an old boat is being restored.
