Ocean Sun pioneering floating solar power solutions

Solar power has a critical role to play in the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. There are, however, drawbacks to land-based solar farms. For example, they require large areas with abundant sun. But there are only a limited number of suitable sites located near the population centres where most of the power will be used.

Floating solar in general, and floating solar near shore in particular, open up vast new opportunities for energy production.

Floating solar systems can be installed in locations such as reservoirs and coastal areas, which are otherwise unproductive. In addition, the water acts as a heat sink, increasing energy yield.

Ocean Sun’s patented solution consists of modified silicon solar modules installed on large floating structures. The modules are supported by a thin hydro-elastic membrane, preventing waves from breaking as well as saltwater intrusion – two challenges with solar plants on salt water.

The structures are built to withstand harsh conditions and the system is certified to withstand typhoon category 4 or winds up to 275 km/h, taking advantage of Norwegian expertise in maritime, photovoltaic and aluminium technology. The system is reviewed by DNV GL to be in conformance with the strict design guidelines originally developed for Norwegian fish farms.

All system components consist of environment-friendly materials with a minimal carbon footprint.

Ocean Sun’s floating solar systems offer a low-cost, high-performance solution to clean energy needs.

Water-cooled solar panels are significantly more efficient than air-cooled panels, as demonstrated in the visualised measurement below; here, at a site in Singapore, Ocean Sun panels achieved almost 11 per cent more efficiency than an air-cooled system.

The market for floating solar on freshwater reservoirs is potentially on a TW scale, according to a 2018 report from the World Bank and Seris Singapore.

Ocean Sun has installed several systems in Norwegian fjords, in Singaporean waters, and on the Magat Hydropower dam in the Philippines.

The company has an extensive IPR portfolio, which ensures low capital expenditure, optimal material usage and logistics, and industry-leading levelised cost of energy for the floating solar industry.