A simulation carried out by scientists at Utrecht University in the Netherlands indicated that offshore photovoltaic plants can be more productive than ground-mounted arrays. After comparing a project in the North Sea with a conventional system in the field, the researchers found that offshore installations can generate 12,96% more energy per year.
According to the study, the simulation measurements accounted for the average ambient and water surface temperature and the effect of waves over the course of a year. The model included seawater functioning as a cooling system, as well as wind speed and relative humidity.
“The ground-mounted set generated 1.192 kWh per year. The floating system was 12,96% more productive, with 1.346 kWh”, said the Utrecht group.
Both simulated projects comprised 12 solar panels for a generation capacity of 3,72 kW. The floating project was placed on a steel pontoon secured by four steel cables.
“Although wind speed simultaneously changes the angle of inclination and as a result the panels are not always positioned at the ideal angle, the existence of water around the pontoon is a great advantage in improving efficiency as the temperature of the panel is lower and more constant too”, concluded the research.
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