SeaVolt Tests Offshore Solar Platform at Ostend Port

• Revolutionizing the world of renewable energy, SeaVolt is a collaboration between Tractebel, DEME, and Jan De Nul’s first floating solar energy test platform, set to be installed in the Belgian North Sea by August. New technologies to assess waves, rain, salt spray, and marine environment are being tested.

SeaVolt, a collaboration between Tractebel, DEME, and Jan De Nul, is preparing to install its first floating solar energy test platform offshore in the Belgian North Sea. The platform flotation system is being assembled by main contractor Equans in the Port of Ostend and is scheduled to be towed offshore, anchored, and put into operation by August. The tests will assess the impact of waves, rain and salt sprays on various solar panels with different configurations, and investigate the use of novel light-weight carbon fiber material for offshore use. Additionally, optical embedded fibers and sensors will be attached to the structure to measure structural integrity, and the material selection will be evaluated based on the prevention of adverse effects on the marine environment. Lastly, specific tests will be conducted to assess combining the floater systems with mussel cultivation and oyster farming.

What Tests Will SeaVolt Assess Offshore?

Tests to Assess Offshore by SeaVolt:

• Assess the impact of waves, rain and salt sprays on various solar panels with different configurations
• Investigate the use of novel light-weight carbon fiber material for offshore use
• Measure structural integrity using optical embedded fibers and sensors
• Evaluate the material selection based on the prevention of adverse effects on the marine environment
• Conduct specific tests to assess combining the floater systems with mussel cultivation and oyster farming