Making waves in solar energy
Setting the scene
As we all know, solar power plays an integral role in generating the ‘green’ electricity which is helping to reduce carbon emissions in markets around the wold. While, historically, these PV installations are often ground, or rooftop based – Floating-PV delivers an alternative approach when there are already pressures on land use and availability.
The Netherlands is just one country which is now tapping into this form of electricity generation.
Meeting the challenge
Our 27.4 MWp floating solar project at Bomhofplas is a textbook example of how an existing body of water, in this case a disused sandpit, can be used as site for this relatively new application form of a highly established technology (solar energy).
Built on 18.25 hectares (around the size of 25 football fields) and comprising 73,000 panels, the project was completed in a record-breaking seven weeks in the spring of 2020.
Construction took place on the lake shore, powered by a ‘satellite’ installation of Floating-PV its construction was almost completely carbon-free. The panels, inverters and transformers were all towed out and installed on the water, meaning there was no need for excavations on the shore. Maintenance, repairs or replacements can all also take place ‘in situ’, on the water.
We developed a state-of-the-art, VDE certified Floating-PV solution, this involved working closely with Zimmermann PV-Stahlbau GmbH to design the substructure. This new system eliminated the common problems that usually arise with existing systems on the market.
Supported by the east-west configuration and design of the panels maximises the potential yield throughout the day, and provides shade, helping to reduce evaporation, a benefit for reservoirs in particular.
Getting the result
Four years on from the introduction of the Citizens and Municipalities Participation Act, BayWa r.e. has brought the Schönberg wind farm online to fall underneath this new law – proving that involving citizens and communities as stakeholders not only makes sense but can also be realised in practice.
The turnkey project has now been handed over to its new owners, Bürgerwindpark Schönberg, whose top priority is the community benefit. We’re delighted that the future consumers of the electricity generated by the wind farm will be able to reap the benefits for years to come.
Thanks to our expertise and innovation, we have developed a system that is creating renewable energy opportunities for under used lakes such as disused quarries, mineral extraction pits and reservoirs.
Head of Project Management, BayWa r.e. Solar Projects GmbH
Our services for the Floating-PV project Bomhofsplas
Project Development
Turnkey Construction
Operations & Maintenance
You may also be interested in
Pushing for zero-carbon solar park construction
Optimising land use with Floating-PV
Floating-PV delivers energy independence to Thai industry
