THE floating solar power plants are attracting growing interest in the field of renewable energies. On the other hand, their impact on the water quality of the bodies of water where they are installed raises questions. Recent studies shed light on this emerging technology and its potential effects on the aquatic environment.
Effects of floating solar panels on water quality
Extensive research in the Netherlands has examined the influence of floating PV installations on various aquatic parameters. These studies, covering lakes with coverage rates ranging from 26% to 48%, analyzed:
- Water stratification
- The temperature
- Dissolved oxygen level
- Electrical conductivity
- Turbidity
The results reveal that the floating solar panels only slightly alter water quality. Despite certain changes observed, the measurements remained within acceptable standards. This reassuring finding suggests that theimpact of floating solar power plants on the aquatic ecosystem would be limited.
Influence on algae growth and ecological balance
A Chilean study looked at the impact of floating photovoltaic systems on algae proliferation. These organisms play a crucial role in the balance of aquatic ecosystems, but their excessive growth can become problematic. Floating solar installations could have a moderating effect on this phenomenon.
In fact, the panels limit the penetration of sunlight in the water, thus impacting the photosynthesis process of algae. For small and medium-sized lakes, this could help control their proliferation. On the other hand, the coverage rate of the panels is a determining factor:
| Coverage rate | Impact on algae |
|---|---|
| Low impact | |
| 40% – 60% | Optimal control |
| > 60% | Risk of disappearance |
A delicate balance must be found to maintain the algal growth at an acceptable level without disturbing the ecosystem. Experts recommend a coverage rate between 40% and 60% for large lakes, in order to preserve aquatic biodiversity.
Safety of installations on drinking water tanks
The use of drinking water reservoirs as solar production sites raises critical questions regarding safety and preservation of water quality. Specialized companies, such as BayWa.re, have developed solutions to minimize risks:
- Use of biodegradable fluids in transformers
- Design of sealed collection tanks
- Selection of UV-resistant and non-flammable materials
- Choice of durable plastic components
These measures aim to prevent any contamination of water by harmful substances. A study carried out on the Kralingen drinking water reservoir in the Netherlands demonstrated that floating installations do not affect the microbial population of the water. These reassuring results suggest that potable water supplies can accommodate floating solar farms without compromising water quality.
Future prospects and challenges
The floating solar appears to be a promising solution to the challenges of space and energy efficiency. This technology offers significant advantages, in particular by limiting the evaporation of water and improving the efficiency of the panels thanks to natural cooling. However, its large-scale deployment requires continued vigilance.
Future research should focus on optimizing designs to maximize benefits while minimizing environmental impacts. Collaboration between scientists, industrialists and authorities will be crucial to establish sustainable standards and practices in the development of floating solar. Thus, this innovation could play a major role in the energy transition, while preserving our precious water resources.
