Project R-12320

Marine Solar POtential and Technology Study "Marinespots" (Research)

The proposed project aims at providing the fundamental scientific basis for the deployment of floating photovoltaic (PV) systems in the Belgian North Sea. In a consortium with research partners from different disciplines, the different technical components will be developed through a systems approach, in order to obtain maximum performance and reliability, and minimal impact on the environment. The main focus is on the PV modules, the electrical power converters and related control systems, the integration in the power system, the floating structures with their anchoring and the interaction with the marine ecosystem. Advice is also derived for the further development and rollout of these technologies, appropriate to the Belgian energy system and policy. The deployment of PV in the North Sea could represent a huge potential for solar energy, due to the large open space, and thus substantially contribute to a more secure and sustainable energy system, relying on renewable energy, if the related technical challenges and risks, such as storms, can be addressed. The installation of PV on water will offer the advantage that the inherent cooling by the nearby cold water mass and sea breeze, leads to an estimated 15% additional yield. When bifacial (two-sided) PV technologies are used, allowing for better capture of reflections, the yield increases further. However, there is the need to use fast-response power converters because of the permanent swell caused by the waves. It may be advantageous to combine such systems with the existing and planned offshore wind farms, in order to combine the grid connection. In the area of the Belgian wind farms on the North Sea, several GW of PV could be installed. Such a system will be more expensive than an equivalent installation on land, but this is compensated by increased electricity production due to the inherent cooling and land use savings. The most critical challenges are related to the harsh conditions on the open sea, including salt water, wind loads and waves. This is the reason why existing conventional systems are not suitable for this use at sea. In addition, it is expected that the electricity production will constantly vary due to the swell and, due to the possible proximity of the wind turbines, also due to shading. A fundamental study will be started into the appropriate materials, the most suitable mechanical design of the floating structure and the configuration of the electrical systems, including power converters and integration into the high-voltage grid. Due attention will be paid to the reliability aspects and protection against extreme conditions. The performance of the whole system will be modelled, taking into account the environmental factors involved in the marine ecology, in a detailed bottom-up approach. Initially, different designs are weighed and components are tested for performance and reliability in different design cycles. This involves simulation of conditions in climate chambers, solar simulators and accelerated life tests for the electrical components, as well as mechanical testing in a wave tank.

01 November 2021 - 31 October 2023