Every year, around 1,4 trillion liters of water evaporate from dams and reservoirs in Australia due to the country's heat and dry air, according to data from Deakin University. To curb this waste, water companies are investing in the benefits of floating solar power. Installed on lakes and reservoirs, these systems help cool the water surface, reducing evaporation, and also generate clean, renewable electricity.
Singapore-based Canopy Power—with support from TotalEnergies and the Gaia Impact Fund—is leading the initiative in Australia. In December, the company obtained exclusive rights to distribute the system developed by Ocean Sun AS, a floating solar power specialist, in the country.
The system is approximately 70 meters in diameter, made of modified polypropylene, and capable of generating 670 kW of solar energy. The technology also includes pumps that collect rainwater. With large-scale installation, covering up to 70% of a reservoir's surface, it is possible to reduce evaporation by up to 55%, according to Canopy Power projections.
Unlike full covers, which can block light and oxygen and encourage algae growth, floating rings allow for adequate ventilation, preserve water quality, and even offer the possibility of feeding excess energy back into the grid. In addition to Australia, the technology is also being applied in regions with freshwater scarcity, such as the Maldives.
The installation of floating solar panels is yet another example of Australia's commitment to promoting renewable energy. Late last year, the country announced the construction of the world's largest solar farm, with 20 GW of capacity and an underwater transmission line that will export clean energy to Singapore. as reported by Canal Solar.
all the content of Canal Solar is protected by copyright law, and partial or total reproduction of this site in any medium is expressly prohibited. If you are interested in collaborating or reusing part of our material, please contact us by email: redacao@canalsolar.com.br.
Comments
Comments are moderated before publication.Comments should be respectful and contribute to a healthy debate. Offensive comments may be removed. The opinions expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the author. Canal Solar.