RWE backs floating solar technology

• Developer is purchasing SolarDuck's pilot project comprising a 500kW installation off Ostend in Belgium

RWE and also the Dutch-Norwegian firm SolarDuck have authorized a cooperation agreement to jointly advance the development of floating solar parks at sea.

In order to gain "fundamental insights" into SolarDuck's floating solar technology, RWE will certainly purchase a pilot project in the North Sea.

The Merganser pilot will certainly have a rated result of 500kW as well as will go live in 2023.

Merganser is to be mounted off the coast of Ostend in the Belgian North Sea and will certainly be SolarDuck's initial offshore pilot project, complying with the successful commissioning of a pilot project in the Netherlands last year.

The project is an initial step in the cooperation as well as lays the structure for a bigger presentation plant off the Dutch coast.

RWE is looking for websites for offshore wind projects as part of the Dutch Federal government's Hollandse Kust West (HKW) tender as well as has actually included SolarDuck in its bid with a cutting-edge mix of floating offshore solar systems and incorporated storage solutions.

The floating offshore solar modern technology established by SolarDuck permits a more effective use of the marine room for energy generation by utilizing the space between the wind generators in addition to "synergies" in the building and also maintenance of the wind turbines.

Because of the corresponding availability of wind as well as solar resources, a much more balanced production profile also results.

SolarDuck's distinct, triangular platform style has actually received the globe's initial qualification for floating offshore solar installations from Bureau Veritas.

The platform is created to float a number of metres above the water and adhere to the waves, comparable to a carpet.

This way, essential electric components stay dry, tidy and stable to aid make sure the longevity of the semi-submersible structure, while at the same time making sure risk-free procedure and maintenance.

Sven Utermöhlen, CEO Wind Offshore at RWE Renewables, stated: "With the SolarDuck pilot project, we are getting experience with a cutting-edge concept.

" We wish to add to increasing the energy shift, positively influencing marine ecology as well as advertising the integration of power systems."