floating offshore solar power SEAVOLT generates electricity even in the harshest conditions

Suspended offshore power with solar panels

A new offshore floating photovoltaic technology is coming to town, and it comprises clusters of solar panels that can generate electricity from the sea even in the harshest weather conditions. Belgian partners Tractebel, DEME, and Jan De Nul introduce SEAVOLT, a massive four-poled structure injected into the sea, anchoring several solar panels planted on its surface that churn out renewable energy.

The modular structure makes it simple to adapt to settings and demands of harsh weather conditions. The upsides include the ability to employ the panels in offshore wind farms and the production of renewable energy locally, where local authorities permit multi-use concessions. The rapid expansion of renewable energy capability in big quantities is another benefit. Following laboratory testing, the partners are currently developing an offshore test installation which will be launched off the Belgian coast in the Summer of 2023.

images courtesy of SEAVOLT

floating offshore solar power SEAVOLT

SEAVOLT springs from the interest of the photovoltaic sector in offshore locations stemming from land scarcity, combined with the need for local production and rapid acceleration of the energy transition. ‘Together with Ghent University, solar panel manufacturer Soltech and dredging companies Jan De Nul and DEME, we are working on the first floating solar energy system in the Belgian North Sea,’ says Tractebel.

Together with a preliminary review of the effects on the marine ecosystem, integration of aquaculture, and a financial assessment, a marine floater concept was created before the floating offshore solar power SEAVOLT. While the energy capacity and detail surrounding the specifications of the floating offshore solar power, the SEAVOLT team is determined to move forward with the testing in the summer of 2023.

The advancement of photovoltaic technology is accelerating, and the group states that local renewable energy production needs are skyrocketing. Wind and solar technology complement each other, and the integration of offshore floating solar to existing and prospective offshore wind facilities gives a possibility to contribute significant amounts of extra renewable energy.