After the successful implementation of the world’s largest floating solar PV test facility in Singapore, Upsolar has announced plans to offer the technology in Europe.
According to a recent press release, Upsolar has entered in a partnership with Koine to use the latter’s floating structures to offer floating solar PV project solutions in Europe. Upsolar has also created an Italian subsidiary for this purpose.
Upsolar shall use its own modules for floating solar PV systems which will be ‘mounted on top of a galvanized steel assembly which sits on top of high-density polyethylene floats, and is anchored in place by nylon cables.
A floating solar PV system has a some unique advantages over land-based solar PV projects; the surrounding water body acts as a cooling system and keeps temperature of the modules in check which, in turn, increases the module efficiency and their lifespan by 15%, the company explained. Cost of maintenance is also lower due to fewer land based factors such as vegetation growth that could cover and reduce the module performance.
“As the market for floating solar PV gains momentum, we believe that it is the right time to start introducing our technology and services to Europe,” said Enrico Carniato, Group Deputy General Manager of Upsolar, “Higher panel efficiency and lower costs of land use is one of the driving factors on why people are taking a bigger interest in this. As well as the economic benefits, we can see the Netherlands, Japan, Singapore, Columbia and other regions where solar installations could be hindered by land restrictions or regulations greatly benefitting from floating solar PV.”
In December last year, a Singapore-based subsidiary of Upsolar commissioned the world’s largest floating solar PV test facility. The 100 kilowatts solar power system also uses the design conceived by Koine and is located at the Tengeh Reservoir.
The system installed by Upsolar will supply electricity 20 households. Upsolar is one of the eight companies that will contribute to the floating solar PV structure at Tengeh Reservoir. The eventual system is expected to generate enough electricity to meet the needs of 1,000 households.
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