What Is Floating Solar And How Does It Work?

The City of Lima recently took the first step towards building the state’s largest floating solar array. Haven’t heard of floating solar before? That’s okay! Here’s what you need to know about this proven and safe technology.

Floating solar means exactly what it sounds like - a system of solar panels that floats on water. The first patents were filed in 2008, and now they are in operation all around the world, safely creating affordable clean energy. 

One of the challenges of solar energy is that the panels can take up a lot of space. Many communities simply don’t have room for a large array. But with floating solar, we can make the most of large bodies of water. 

Of course, you can’t install floating solar everywhere. Nobody wants to swim into a solar panel while enjoying some time at the lake. That’s why these arrays are best suited for reservoirs, like the one in Lima. 

The other benefit of installing floating solar panels on reservoirs is that they actually protect the water. The panels create shade and reduce the water temperature, leading to less evaporation. The water also cools the panels, making them more efficient. 

Water treatment facilities use a lot of energy, so adding solar panels to their reservoirs can help offset that energy use and save communities money. 

The City of Healdsburg has the largest solar array in the country. The city first explored the idea as a way to decrease algal blooms in their wastewater treatment ponds, and now the project provides roughly 8% of the city’s electricity needs. 

The City of Lima project will be developed by D3Energy, and they have a lot more information on their website (including how the panels are maintained - using floating paths for maintenance staff!).

When it comes to floating solar arrays, there’s a lot to be excited about. We can’t wait to see this project come to fruition over the next year and a half. Congratulations to the City of Lima for taking the first step!