DNV GL launches initiative to define standards for floating solar projects

Global quality assurance and risk management firm DNV GL has initiated a joint industry project (JIP) with 14 international energy players to develop a broad set of standards that will guide the development of floating solar projects.

The group will work on putting together a recommended practice (RP) for the promising renewable energy sector, which is currently lacking a unified approach that ensures quality, safety and sustainability of floating solar projects.

According to DNV GL, floating solar power capacity amounted to 3 GWp at end-2019, moving from just 10 MW installed by 2015. Placing arrays on man-made, inland waters alone could potentially yield as much as 4 TW, the firm said.

To help the floating solar industry realise the capacity potential, DNV GL brought together Baywa r.e., Blue C Engineering, Carpi Tech/Makor Energy, Ciel & Terre International, Compagnie Nationale du Rhone, Noria Energy, Electricite de France (EDF), Energias de Portugal (EDP), Equinor, Isigenere, Mainstream Renewable Power, Scatec Solar, Seaflex and Statkraft.

The JIP will explore all aspects of developing floating solar projects on inland and inshore waters, with the aim to define guidelines that can be practically applied to all kinds of installations.

The consortium will keep a focus on site conditions assessment, energy yield forecast, mooring and anchoring systems, floating structures, permitting and environmental impact.

A draft guideline document will be ready by the end of 2020 and available to the industry for consultation. Publication of the verified recommended practice is planned for the first quarter of 2021, DNV GL said.

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