The system provider Sonnenkraft, based in St. Veit an der Glan in southern Austria, has implemented a special project in the Carinthian capital Klagenfurt: a photovoltaic system on the municipal theatre. “With the implementation of this strategically important project for the Klagenfurt Municipal Theatre, we, as a leading cultural institution, are taking an important step towards sustainable management,” explains Matthias Walter, Commercial Director of the theatre. The artistic director of the municipal theatre adds: “In these times of climate crisis, which cannot be denied, we have to rethink. How can we treat this world – and we only have one – with care? The municipal theatre is setting a good example with its solar power photovoltaic system.”

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The first thoughts about installing the solar system came in 2023, when the more than 1,900 lamps and lights in and around the theatre were completely converted to LED technology. However, as the theatre building is a listed building, this was not so easy.

Installing invisible from street level

However, after consultation with the Federal Monuments Office and other relevant authorities, the installers from Sonnenkraft were able to mount modules on the flat roof of the new building. However, it had to be ensured that the modules could not be seen from the street. If they are visible, they must not detract from the overall appearance of the building.

See also: Combining a landmark historic building with photovoltaics

Installed on a copper seam

Malte Forstat

The modules were therefore installed in such a way that they form a visual unit with the copper roof below. To do this, the fitters installed them parallel to the roof on a rail system that was attached to the seams of the copper roof. In this way, the craftsmen were able to install a total of 185 panels with a total output of 75 kilowatts on the 350 square metre roof.

60 megawatt hours of solar power for culture

The municipal theatre uses almost all of the electricity generated itself. Due to its less than perfect orientation, the system supplies around 60,000 kilowatt hours of solar power every year. With its stage, workshops and offices, the theatre requires around 520,000 kilowatt hours of electricity. Thanks to the innovative cooperation with Sonnenkraft, the renowned theatre can increase its energy efficiency and significantly reduce its operating costs,” emphasises Reinhard Pasterk, Technical Managing Director of Sonnenkraft.

Also interesting: Pioneering commercial PV rooftop installation in Austria

System is sponsored

The theatre did not have to put up any money of its own. This is because Sonnenkraft sponsored the new generator on the roof. “This innovative sponsorship creates a future-oriented partnership that not only promotes sustainable energy solutions, but also supports cultural diversity and focuses on new creative impulses and local value creation,” says Dajana Scherr, Head of Marketing at Sonnenkraft. (su/mfo)





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Photovoltaic installations on roofs or in fields is nothing unusual. However, it is probably not widely known that solar installations can also float. That may be about to change, as more than 190 floating solar modules have been installed on the Mortkasee artificial lake in Lohsa, Saxony. This joint project between RWE, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) and Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg (BTU) investigates the extent to which floating solar islands can be implemented and operated in harmony with aquatic ecology. The project is being sponsored by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action.

See also: Floating PV Best Practice Guidelines published

The plant was officially inaugurated today in the presence of guests from the worlds of science, industry and politics, including representatives of the Saxon Ministry of Energy, Climate Protection, Environment and Agriculture, and Thomas Leberecht, the mayor of Lohsa. Interested citizens also had the opportunity to learn about floating solar islands and the “PV2Float” research project.

Solar modules learn to float

Thomas Leberecht, mayor of the Lohsa municipality: “Originally created by flooding the Werminghoff opencast lignite mine, the Mortkasee artificial lake has become one of the first research sites for floating solar islands in Germany. This technology promises a higher power yield, since the cold water can have a positive impact on the efficiency of the solar modules. Another advantage is that previously unused mine lakes, which are not intended to be used for recreation, can be developed for green electricity generation. That offers major potential for the energy transition in Germany and here in our region.”

Three different floating solar islands have been installed on the Mortkasee. With a rated capacity of about 30 kilowatts each, these are relatively small, but still provide important insights into the benefits of various technological solutions, how costs can be reduced, and how larger, future floating solar installations can be implemented in harmony with the environment. The research plant on the Mortkasee will operate until the end of 2027.

Also interesting: Offshore solar pilot installation in the Dutch North Sea

Experienced partners from research and industry

RWE, Fraunhofer ISE and BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg are the three expert partners driving this research project forward. RWE has many years of experience in the construction and operation of utility-scale solar plants and already operates a floating photovoltaic plant on a former cooling water lake in the Netherlands. Fraunhofer ISE is Europe’s largest solar research institute. It develops solutions for floating photovoltaics and other integrated photovoltaic technologies, in addition to carrying out research into public acceptance of these technologies. BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg has extensive scientific expertise in the field of aquatic ecology. (mfo)





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With 12,500 properties worldwide, measures are being taken on existing properties to achieve the 2050 climate target, with the integration of solar energy playing a central role.
Due to the considerable roof areas of DHL’s large warehouse buildings, substantial solar installations can be installed there, enabling DHL to maximize the use of solar energy on the properties.

“Everything we do is geared towards achieving zero emissions by 2050. We have a clear policy on solar energy – every location is screened for solar potential. For existing locations, factors such as the size of the property and the length of the lease are taken into account when considering solar installations. However, we install solar panels on all new sites,” says Jussi Jylhä, Infrastructure Manager, Operations at DHL Supply Chain (Finland) Oy.

Locally generated energy also offers marketing advantages

Currently, 56% of DHL’s energy comes from renewable sources, 94% of the electricity it uses is predominantly green. With the goal of energy self-sufficiency and locally generated electricity, DHL is installing solar panels on every property.

In Pirkkala, DHL owns a property of approximately 4,000 square meters, where Solnet Group installed a solar energy system in 2019. DHL was involved in the tender for this project, but an external contractor managed the construction of the building. Solnet Group then worked with the construction company.

Also interesting: Virtual power plant for solar companies to participate in balancing markets

“It is crucial for us to meet our emissions targets while also generating electricity right on site. We have also noticed the marketing benefits of solar energy in building our brand. For example, we use pictures and videos of our Pirkkala site in our sales materials,” mentions Jussi Jylhä.

Security as top priority

When selecting partners for the Pirkkala project, security was already an important factor. Since then, security has become even more important and is clearly one of the most influential factors in decision-making. Solnet Group’s intelligent solar system, with remote management and the ability to disconnect power to the panels, were deciding factors.
“The security features and credentials of the Solnet Group solution convinced us, along with its price-performance ratio and suitable guarantees. In addition, Solnet provides production data displayed on screens in our lobby, which generates positive feedback and makes the solar installation visible. Despite its size, the solar array is not visible from the roof, so this way we can demonstrate its effect in reducing emissions and generating electricity,” Jylhä points out.

Also see: Best possible utilisation of a logistic property for PV

As advice for those implementing solar arrays for the first time, Jylhä recommends bringing in an experienced consultant. A company that understands the variables that affect yields and system size, and knows the technical specifications.

“If you have a reliable partner and a solar plant has been built with high-quality equipment, it is relatively maintenance-free to operate. Solnet Group does maintenance once or twice a year. We monitor and report on the system’s output ourselves, and Solnet Group handles maintenance and monitors operations at the panel level. Integrating production overview has also been effortless,” Jylhä emphasizes. (hcn)





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The Swedish company delivers solar energy solutions to both businesses and private individuals. “We supply our solar solutions to a diverse range of customers, including industrial, commercial, and private clients”, tells Robert Lenhov, CEO of Skapa Energi. “Our focus is primarily on industrial and commercial properties, which account for approximately 80% of our revenue. The remaining 20% comes from private customers. This distribution reflects our expertise and capacity to handle larger-scale projects, although we continue to serve private homeowners who seek sustainable energy solutions for their residences.

Watch the video on Skapa Energi here!

Operation along the coast

Skapa Energi’s operations are primarily concentrated in Western Sweden, specifically along the coastal region from Strömstad in the north to Malmö in the south. This geographic focus allows the company to deliver high-quality service and maintain close relationships with its clients.

More news about the Swedish market

However, the long-term ambition is to expand the reach and offer solar installation services nationwide across Sweden. “This expansion will enable us to bring sustainable energy solutions to a broader audience while maintaining the same level of quality and customer care,” Robert Lenhov explains.

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Components from European suppliers

Skapa Energi primarily works with European brands for its solar components, including solar modules, inverters, mounting systems, and storage batteries. The primary reason for this is the reduced climate impact associated with shorter transportation distances and better working conditions.

Sweden: Less residential – more commercial PV installations

“Sustainability is key to us and a priority throughout our supply chain. Choosing European manufacturers aligns with our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint”, Lenhov explains. “Some of the manufacturers we regularly use include REC for solar modules, Kostal and SMA for inverters, and K2 and Nordmount for mounting systems. These brands are known for their high quality, reliability, and commitment to sustainable practices.”

REC is Norwegian, Kostal, SMA and K2 from Germany, Nordmount of Swedish origin. Skapa Energi sources its components from trusted Swedish and German distributors, as these partners ensure access to high-quality products from reputable European manufacturers.

Quick respond to market demands

This approach also allows the company to respond quickly to market demands and provide its customers with the latest advancements in solar technology. “One of the main challenges we face is the high price of climate-neutral and high-quality products compared to market-leading alternatives”, concludes Robert Lenhov. “Despite the clear benefits of choosing sustainable and ethically produced components, many customers are still inclined to opt for lower-cost options. We are continually working to educate our customers about the long-term value and importance of choosing sustainable solutions, even when the upfront cost is higher.” (Carina Aspenberg)

Carina Aspenberg is PV Europe’s correspondent in Sweden.





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Zestec, part of the Octopus Energy group, worked in partnership with commercial solar PV specialist UPOWA to design and install a rooftop mounted solar array to power Bombardier’s service facility with on-site renewable energy.

A total of 3,023 solar panels will be supplying zero-carbon electricity to help reduce demand for electricity from the grid. Bombardier’s energy costs will be offset by up to £85,000 in the first year of generation, an up to 38% saving on their grid-supplied tariff. The solar PV system will generate approximately 1,133,000 kWh in its first year, lowering annual carbon emissions by up to 252 tonnes.

Extra considerations compared to a usual rooftop PV system

The solar PV project is a critical step in Bombardier’s clean energy transition, demonstrating the company’s ambition to reduce its environmental footprint and increase self-generated energy from renewable sources. This initiative is part of Bombardier’s global environmental plan, which aims to achieve a 25% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2025 relative to 2019 levels.

Bombardier’s expanded London Biggin Hill Service Centre nears 250,000 square feet and provides customers with complete heavy maintenance capabilities. It is fully equipped to perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, modifications and avionics installations for Bombardier Learjet, Challenger and Global aircraft.

Designing and installing airport solar requires extra considerations compared to a usual rooftop system. Working with partner UPOWA, Zestec ensured a controlled process from design through to installation and commissioning, making sure there was no added risk to airport privacy and operations.

Avoiding FOD risk as key consideration

The 1.25MW PV system has been carefully designed to ensure there is no glint and glare for planes landing on the airport runway. With limited and controlled access during construction, Zestec and UPOWA ensured an organised and timely approach to avoid disruption to Bombardier’s schedule.

Also interesting. JinkoSolar – Utility scale storage for Athens airport

With all airports, foreign object debris (FOD) risk is a key consideration. This meant all materials and PV modules had to be meticulously unpacked outside the airside area. Bespoke bird hazard management was also required to ensure aerodrome safety. UPOWA installed netting at the solar array’s perimeter, to avoid attracting birds and creating risk to aircraft.

Owned and managed by Zestec, the commercial rooftop solar array is supporting Bombardier’s UK operations to build a greener future, contributing to the UK’s energy transition and drive for net zero. (hcn)





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Whether it’s installing solar panels on a single-family home or managing a complete renovation project for a housing cooperative, these values guide the approach of the Trelleborg-based company. “The strength of our company lies in our versatility. We see the big picture and truly understand our customers”, explains Daniel Ohlin, founder and CEO of BBK Group AB. We don’t view a job as just a transaction, but as the beginning of a relationship.”

Watch the video on BBK’s success story here!

The company was established in the early 2000s. After initially starting as an IT consulting firm, the company soon expanded its services to include project management and the installation of solar panels. “Our business motto is 100% satisfied customers”, says Daniel Ohlin. “We approach every assignment, large or small, with the same respect and commitment, ensuring that customers see BBK Group as a long-term and competent partner.”

Living quarter in Malmö: High quality and service were the deciding factors

The company primarily provide solar solutions and installations for quality-conscious property owners. “Many of our clients are housing cooperatives”, says the CEO, “But we also serve others, such as ICA Fastigheter, where we recently installed over 300 kW of solar power at their ICA Maxi in Lund.”

More news about the Swedish market

BBK Group operates in southern Sweden, focusing on Skåne, Blekinge, Småland, and Halland. “Historically, we have exclusively worked with REC solar cells, Kostal inverters, and BYD batteries. We chose these suppliers because they are market leaders in their segments and offer ‘the best on the market,’” explains Daniel Ohlin.

Sweden: Less residential – more commercial PV installations

The main supplier of components and products is wholesaler EWS in northern Germany, although the company also has agreements with Krannich Solar and BayWa r.e. Solar Trade. This choice is based on a long-standing and proven customer and supply chain relationship.

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Those close ties allow BBK Group to easily and quickly get direct answers, even on complex matters concerning technology and installation. “The biggest challenges in the renewable energy sector at the moment are that, during several golden years, the market was flooded with poor-quality products and equally poor, short-sighted installations by unscrupulous actors”, Daniel Ohlin analyses. “Fortunately, these have decreased in recent years for several reasons, including increased customer awareness and improved availability of higher-quality products.” (Carina Aspenberg)

Carina Aspenberg is PV Europe’s correspondent in Sweden.





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The 100kW photovoltaic system in Kimolos is installed near the new desalination unit of the Municipality of Kimolos with a capacity of 220 m3/day, (average consumption of water per person is 0.1440 m3/day) and connects to the low voltage network of the grid, ensuring the uninterrupted operation of the station. The project consists of 238 units of 420W PV modules.

As the environmental conditions in Kimolos can be quite harsh, including gusting winds, high temperatures and high levels of humidity and salty environment, Zillion opted for the Sungrow’s SG50CX-P2 string inverters. These inverters are compatible with high power modules (+500Wp) and have smart O&M functions, while they have a robust design certified with IP66 protection and C5 anti-corrosion level.

For the communication of the system, the COM100E smart communication box by Sungrow was chosen, providing flexible, reliable and easy operation, along with a high level of protection due to the IP66 design. The products have been delivered via Krannich Solar Greece, Sungrow’s official distributor.

Sungrow

Sungrow’s SG50CX-P2 string inverters and COM100E communication box were installed.

Kimolos lies on the southwest of the island group of Cyclades with a distance of approximately 85 nautical miles to the southeast of Piraeus, the biggest port of Greece. With an area of 34.4 square kilometers, according to the latest census (2021) just over 810 inhabitants live there, a number that increases to many thousands during the summer period, as this beautiful destination attracts tourist from all over the world.

The increased number of people, in combination with the climate change, propose a significant challenge for the water supply of the island, especially during the summer months. One solution is the desalination of sea water, a well-known, but also energy intensive practice that is deployed to address water scarcity globally. Almost one-fifth of the world’s population lives in areas of water scarcity.

Also see: Innovative solar-powered water desalination system

It is predicted that many regions in the EU – especially, southern European Member States – will face severe water scarcity by 2050, when water demand is expected to increase by up to 30%. Desalination can significantly alleviate this problem, while the use of clean energy for this process can provide a sustainable solution.

Aerial view of the desalination PV-system.

Sungrow

Aerial view of the desalination PV-system.

“Implementing this project was a true challenge for us, primarily due to its geographical location and the difficulties in connecting with mainland during the winter when the construction took place. Additionally, the specific positioning required for the panels demanded careful planning,” said Mr. Vasileios Ziogos, Founder and Head Engineer of Zillion. “Nevertheless, the uniqueness of the project and its purpose inspired us to proceed with dedication and determination. By selecting equipment of exceptional quality and reliability, we are confident in its excellent and seamless operation.”

Also see: Strategic partnership of Menlo Electric and Sungrow

“As Sungrow continues to expand its footprint in Greece, we are proud to support projects like the Kimolos PV installation, which directly contribute to the sustainability and resilience of local communities,” said Mr. Dimitrios Galanos, Sungrow Country Manager Greece and Cyprus. “Providing reliable, efficient, and innovative solutions for this project, we’re not only helping to meet the energy demands of the water desalination facility but also paving the way for a greener future.” (hcn)





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In the Holma district of Malmö there is a large residential complex at Hyacintgatan 45. It was recently equipped with photovoltaics, like previous similar large-scale projects. The quarter was built in the 1970s as part of the so-called million dollar program. In order to create affordable housing, numerous settlements were planted on arable land.

Video: Presenting the BBK Group from Trelleborg, Sweden

15 buildings with 540 apartments

In this case it is the owners’ association Riksbyggen Brf Malmöhus 24, which includes 540 apartments. The solarization project was planned and installed by the BBK company.
In order to meet the high requirements, BBK first analyzed the market for solar components. “We chose solar inverters from Kostal and modules from REC from Norway,” says Daniel Ohlin, CEO of the BBK Group. “This guarantees high quality. It was also important to us that if we have any questions or problems, experienced and local technical experts can help us if necessary.” The selection of the inverters was preceded by extensive tests of various products and suppliers. The decisive factors were efficiency and service.

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Some roofs more than 30 meters high

The Riksbyggen Brf Malmöhus 24 district consists of 15 buildings with different floor plans, some of which are higher than 30 meters. “We started installing solar modules on the first building in 2016,” Ohlin reflects. “We have equipped another building every year since then.”

Kostal Solar Electric

The solar modules are mounted parallel to the roof pitch using the Dome Zero from K2 Systems.


Quality and service also played a crucial role in the selection of assembly technology. “In Sweden, no one has any technical experience with installation on such tall buildings,” reports the manager. “The wind loads are very high and the conditions for installation are sometimes extreme.”

Do you want to know more about PV in Sweden? Look here!

Modules installed parallel to the roof

So far, 2048 N-Peak and Twinpeak 5 solar modules have been installed by REC. The substructure comes from K2 Systems. The solar modules were not mounted on stands, but rather mounted parallel to the roof pitch using the Dome Zero from K2 Systems. “This meant we didn’t need approval from the building authorities,” explains the manager. “The system also requires far fewer additions or fastenings to the solid wood roof substructure.”

All systems have the same structure and components to ensure longevity and reduce maintenance costs. “The installation went smoothly in all projects because all suppliers supported us in the planning,” praises Ohlin. “We were and are in constant contact to coordinate data and requirements.”

Borgholm is the solar city of Sweden

Around 650 kilowatts installed so far

Six of 14 buildings are now equipped with solar technology. The solar modules produce 650 kilowatts. 17 inverters were installed, EPC and Piko CI. All in all, 550,000 kilowatt hours of clean electricity have been generated so far.

Kostal provided the solar inverters.

Kostal Solar Electric

Kostal provided the solar inverters.

It was important to planners and owners that the projects were economically viable. “At the beginning we planned to break even in eight years,” says Ohlin. “When electricity prices skyrocketed, we broke even after just four to five years.”

As a result, the systems that were first installed have already paid for themselves. The solar power goes via the house power distributors into the apartments and elevators, into the lighting of the stairwells and garages and into charging points for electric cars. (HS/hcn)

Learn more about BBK group on the company‘s website!





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The solar parks not only produce green electricity, but are also used for sheep grazing. This marks another milestone for BayWa r.e. in the conversion of brownfield sites into energy, agricultural and ecological land. The former military sites were cleaned up and cleared of mines as part of the transformation.

On the decommissioned La Martinerie military base near Châteauroux in central France, two solar parks will generate 82 GWh of solar power per year, which corresponds to the electricity consumption of around 38,000 citizens. While the 40 MW “Greenberry” solar park was only recently commissioned, its predecessor “Blueberry” has been in operation since 2021 with an installed capacity of 30 MW.

Preserve local biodiversity 

The electricity needs of a further 38,000 people are covered by the three solar parks, Fontenet I, II and III. The plants are located on the former Fontenet military base in Charente-Maritime and also generate 82 GWh per year. Following the completion of Fontenet I in 2014 and Fontenet II in 2022, the construction of Fontenet III was recently completed.

In order to preserve local biodiversity and reduce mechanical maintenance of the solar parks, BayWa r.e. has concluded contracts for sheep grazing at both sites. Additional measures to protect orchids, reptiles and small mammals have been implemented at Greenberry and Blueberry. In Fontenet, BayWa r.e. is also supporting the local community by installing solar panels on the roof of a community building.

Also see: PV project in France with hydrogen, storage and community participation

“We are proud to have successfully completed these flagship projects. By transforming the former military areas, we are achieving a triple benefit: ecological, through the conversion into pastureland, energy, through the installation of solar panels, and climatic, through the production of green electricity, which saves more than 58,000 tons of CO₂,” explained Benoît Roux, Managing Director of BayWa r.e. France.

Pyrotechnic decontamination required

“This example of land redevelopment in the context of the energy transition is another milestone for our innovative and local approach in France. With a strong regional presence, we are determined to create positive impacts and benefits for the local community. Renewable energy is a driver for rural and environmental development – not only solar energy, but also wind energy, as the French team recently demonstrated with the 9 MW Quilly wind farm, which was fully sold to the local community,” adds Céline Tran, Regional Director of Projects Europe South-West at BayWa r.e.

Also see: BayWa – Liquidity secured until end of September

The La Martinerie and Fontenet military sites both have a rich history dating back to the first half of the 20th century. La Martinerie housed a pilot school from 1915 and the 3rd Fighter Squadron from 1920. The Fontenet military camp was built in the interwar period. From 1951 to 1969, these bases housed NATO troops before being closed in the 2000s.

Pyrotechnic decontamination was required before these areas could be cleaned up. Several grenades were secured at Fontenet and a 250 kg bomb was unearthed at La Martinerie in 2023. (hcn)





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The pilot project aims to test and demonstrate the structural, mooring and electrical designs and acquire knowledge about manufacturing, assembly, offshore installation and maintenance methodologies required for large-scale commercial deployment of OFPV.

12 kilometers off the coast of Scheveningen

Merganser has a capacity of 0.5 MW and is located in the Dutch North Sea, approximately 12 kilometers off the coast of Scheveningen. The scalable concept consists of six interconnected platforms that can withstand extreme offshore conditions. The floating platforms were successfully connected to the mooring system in water depth of 20 meters. RWE will continue to provide its offshore know-how and technical support to the pilot project.

Also see: Accelerate deployment of offshore PV floating

Sven Utermöhlen, CEO of RWE Offshore Wind: “Standalone or also in combination with offshore wind farms, offshore floating solar could open up further offshore renewable energy opportunities – especially for countries with lower average wind speeds but lots of sunlight. With Merganser, we are gaining unique insights and first-hand experience in one of the most challenging offshore environments in the world.”

Following the waves like a carpet

Taking solar farms offshore requires technology that is able to withstand rough offshore conditions. SolarDuck´s triangular-shaped platform is designed to float several meters above the water, following the waves like a carpet. In this way, the design is keeping critical components dry, clean and stable, as well as securing the structural integrity of the semi-submersible floating structure. The design received recently the world’s first certification for OFPV by Bureau Veritas.

SolarDuck

Close aerial view of Merganser.

Koen Burgers, CEO SolarDuck: “The successful installation of Merganser is proof of the dedication of SolarDuck’s team to electrify the world with offshore floating solar. However, we are not doing this alone. Our project partner, RWE, is a supporter of our technology and vision, in addition to other partners such as TNO, TU Delft, MARIN, and Deltares. Together with numerous supply chain partners, including Damen Shipyards, TMA, and Norsk Hydro, we have turned hard work into a positive change for the energy space.”

More than 180 monitoring sensors

The combination of RWE´s leading global market position in offshore wind and SolarDuck´s technological ingenuity sets the perfect base for accelerating the deployment of OFPV. Over the coming two years, Merganser will be monitored remotely with its more than 180 sensors fitted to monitor structural loads, connector and mooring loads and electrical performance, among other important performance criteria.

Also see: Floating PV Best Practice Guidelines published 

Further to the above, Deltares – a Dutch independent institute for applied research – will support an extensive monitoring campaign on the ecological impact of OFPV. (hcn)





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