Floating PV is gaining traction worldwide and approaching broader market uptake. SolarPower Europe’s new report collects best practices and lessons from early projects. As a first handbook for the sector, it aims to support the development of high-quality floating PV by fostering shared expertise and knowledge transfer.
The report provides a comprehensive overview of the floating PV market in Europe and worldwide. It covers the benefits of the technology, guidance for developers, global best practices, technical applications, and includes a dedicated chapter on offshore solar.
Bring solar to new shores
Key recommendations for expanding offshore solar include building public support for the technology and increasing EU funding for research and innovation.
Construction begins on Europe's largest floating solar farm
Lina Dubina, Policy Advisor for Sustainability at SolarPower Europe, commented: “Solar growth is unparalleled, and we are working to achieve a minimum 750 GW EU target by 2030. With these guidelines, we’re outlining how floating PV can sustainably play a role in this growth, drive high-quality projects, and bring solar to new shores.”
Know-how of over 30 experts
More than 30 experts from SolarPower Europe’s Land Use and Permitting Workstream contributed to the report, sharing their knowledge of floating PV best practices through technical guidance and real-world examples.
Accelerating the deployment of offshore floating PV
One such example is a hybrid power plant by Amarenco in Montpezat d'Agenais, France, built on a former quarry site. The project combines a ground-mounted system with a connected floating PV array on the water surface, with a total installed capacity of 4.8 MW. The floating PV system is expected to save 250 tonnes of CO₂ annually.
The Floating PV Best Practices report was launched at the Sustainable Solar Europe event in Brussels. Jointly organised by Intersolar Europe and SolarPower Europe, the annual event brings together the solar community to discuss key sustainability topics and exchange best practices. (hcn)
