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Researchers at the University of Oviedo in Asturias, Spain have developed an innovative floating PV system for offshore applications that combines a dual-axis tracking mechanism with a tension leg platform (TLP), which is seen as a "promising solution for offshore solar energy".
The photovoltaic system is designed to weather the onslaught of the sea and produce electricity in marine environments. It will assure structural integrity, provide a firm base, and make transporting and installation smoother.
"HelioSea, a revolutionary floating idea for capturing solar energy offshore, has two important features: a dual-axis tracking system and a TLP. Although the former is a regularly used technique in GPV installations, the TLP has never been considered in the design of FPV systems. This design aims to achieve two goals: maximise power generation while also creating a dependable framework to withstand the harsh marine environment, according to the study.
The exclusive TLP comprises a mast and four pontoons attached to the sea floor by taut mooring lines. "The proposed TLP substructure is independent and monolithic, thereby eliminating the requirement for mobile components and interconnections, apart from the mooring system," the researchers added.
According to Lopez Gallego, the device is presently in the early phases of development, with a technological readiness level (TRL) of 2 to 3.
According to the researchers, the TLP can endure a variety of degradation processes, including erosion, abrasion, UV-induced deterioration, significant temperature changes, high humidity, and saltwater corrosion. It is made using surface pretreatment and a dual-layer protection system by hot-dip galvanising.
The system prototype was designed to be equipped with a 75 kW capacity and contain 138 bifacial PV panels with a rated output of 545 W. The modules are arranged in six rows of 23 on a top-of-pole mount. Vertical and horizontal dual-axis trackers are featured, which use servo motors to automatically change two angles during the day.
Researchers further stated that the system could offer a capacity density of 64 MW/km2 and a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of €0.16 ($0.17)/kWh to €0.27/kWh. "While these values diverge significantly from those of ground-mounted solar systems, they align with a comparable order of magnitude to offshore floating wind systems and are notably lower than other marine renewable energies, such as wave and tidal energy,"
Read more- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S030626192400093X
