Solarity introduces first floating system in Morocco

Ground and roof mounting installations are not the only type of PV system. Thirteen years ago, the first floating PV installation was built. In 2013 the total capacity of all floating PV systems surpassed 1.2 MW. In 2018 the total capacity of the floating PV stations reached 750 MW which is almost twice compared to previous years (453MW in 2017). As you can see, floating PV installations are getting increasingly more popular despite higher costs when compared to ground mounting systems. The total cost of a floating installation is 10-15% more expensive. This is because the system design is more complicated. The structure must withstand not just constant mechanical, wind or snow load, but also movement of waves and changes of the water level. The PV cables should be protected not just from UV rays, but from rising or lowering water levels as well.  Moreover, the safety restrictions are way higher than ground mounting systems.

The floating PV system has a wide range of benefits. First, water performs as a natural cooler. This is critical for systems installed in hot climates (for example in desertic areas). High outdoor temperature combined with the heat radiation from the modules can reduce the efficiency of the system. For example, at a temperature of 65 ˚C the installation is 16% less efficient.  Moreover, the natural cover of a lake or reservoir by floating installation greatly reduces the evaporation of water.