Why is hydro photovoltaics becoming so popular?

Why is water photovoltaics becoming so popular?

Water photovoltaics, also known as floating solar farms, are gaining popularity for several key reasons, becoming an increasingly attractive alternative to land-based installations.

First of all, they do not take up valuable land, which is a huge advantage, especially in densely populated areas or where access to development land is limited. Floating panels use available water surfaces such as reservoirs, lakes, or ponds, allowing for maximum use of the resource without competing with agriculture or urbanization.

Secondly, water cooling increases the efficiency of the panels. Solar panels work more efficiently at lower temperatures. Water naturally cools the modules from below, which can increase their energy production by 10-15% compared to land-based panels, especially on hot days. This directly translates into higher energy yields.

Additionally, floating installations reduce water evaporation from reservoirs, which is important in drought-stricken regions. The shade cast by the panels limits the exposure of water to the sun, reducing water loss. They can also inhibit the growth of algae, improving water quality in reservoirs.

Finally, the ease of scalability and modularity make water photovoltaics a flexible solution. These systems can be easily expanded by adding additional floating modules depending on the needs and available water surface. What’s more, their installation and removal are often less invasive than in the case of large land-based installations.