Installation of a floating solar pilot project in the Dutch North Sea has been completed successfully by energy company RWE and floating solar developer SolarDuck.
Named “Merganser”, fitting with SolarDuck’s waterfowl theme, the 0.5MW project is comprised of six interconnected platforms built to withstand the harsh conditions of the North Sea.
SolarDuck CEO Koen Burgers says: “The combination of RWE’s leading global market position in offshore wind and SolarDuck’s technological ingenuity sets the perfect base for accelerating the deployment of OFPV (Offshore Floating Photovoltaic).
“The successful installation of Merganser is proof of the dedication of SolarDuck’s team to electrify the world with offshore floating solar.”
The continuous technical performance of the pilot project will be monitored by the two companies, ensuring structural integrity and durability. The site will also gather data on structural loads and electrical performance, utilising more than 180 built-in sensors.
Bureau Veritas has awarded Merganser’s design with the world’s first OFPV certification. The performance of Merganser’s will be monitored over the next two years, to check the offshore project’s design’s viability for commercialisation.
Additionally, developers are keeping in mind the possibility for the pilot project to integrate with offshore wind farms to optimise ocean space.
Sven Utermöhlen, CEO of RWE Offshore Wind, adds: Standalone or also in combination with offshore wind farms, offshore floating solar could open up further offshore renewable energy opportunities – especially for countries with lower average wind speeds but lots of sunlight.
“With Merganser, we are gaining unique insights and first-hand experience in one of the most challenging offshore environments in the world.”
