In recent years, various countries in Europe have actively promoted the construction of floating solar power generation projects. Nations like Italy and the Netherlands have initiated multiple large-scale projects, with a planned installed capacity exceeding 100 megawatts. The European Photovoltaic Industry Association anticipates that floating solar will become the world’s second-largest market, with a promising development outlook.
Strengthening Policy Support
According to analysis from Wood Mackenzie, floating solar is an important solution to the conflict between limited land resources and the growing demand for solar power generation in Europe. Amid increasing pressure to reduce emissions, the European Commission has raised its solar power generation targets, aiming for 750 gigawatts of installed capacity by 2030. From 2024 onward, EU countries are required to add 70 gigawatts of installed capacity annually, maintaining an annual growth rate of over 16%. As a result, floating solar projects will receive more support. In March of this year, SolarDuck, a joint venture between the Netherlands and Norway, began developing the “Maritime Sunrise” floating solar project. The project, with an investment of approximately €8.4 million, has received EU funding and is located off the western coast of the Netherlands, encompassing several megawatt-scale commercial projects.
Companies Joining the Effort
SolarDuck’s CEO, Koen Burgers, stated that floating solar has become a new opportunity in Europe’s renewable energy sector, particularly valued in Mediterranean countries. Driven by both policy and market dynamics, more companies are actively participating in the development of multiple projects. For instance, SolarDuck has signed a cooperation agreement with an Italian renewable energy developer and Arrow Capital investment fund to build a 120-megawatt floating solar project in southern Italy, expected to be operational by 2028.
Simon Stak, CTO of the Dutch Marine Energy Center, pointed out that the implementation of floating solar projects will promote commercial development in the industry, and collaboration among companies is likely to enhance technological advancements. Currently, several companies in Europe have announced plans for floating solar projects, with more than 200 megawatts of installed capacity under construction and substantial future planning.
Significant Ecological Benefits
Dries Eek emphasized the positive ecological impacts of floating solar projects. For instance, a 28-megawatt floating solar project in a sand pit, constructed by the Dutch company Groenleven, found through research that the project had no negative effects on the lake’s flora and fauna and actually promoted biodiversity. Additionally, floating solar reduces wind erosion along the lake’s shore and decreases water evaporation, benefiting plant growth, thereby showcasing the sustainable development potential of floating solar.
Hfiepower provides you with the latest trends in the solar energy industry, and you are also welcome to discuss solar photovoltaic panels, solar energy storage and other related products with us.