The Spanish government has approved new regulations permitting floating solar panels to cover 5% – 15% of the surface area for reservoirs within the public water domain.
According to the Spanish Ministry for the Ecological Transition, the allowable size of these solar arrays will depend on the reservoir’s “trophic” state; reservoirs with poorer water quality will be allowed greater coverage, according to the Spanish Ministry for the Ecological Transition.
Specifically, eutrophic reservoirs, which have high biological productivity or are at risk of eutrophication (plant and algae growth from a nutrient-rich environment), can have up to 15% of their surface area covered by solar panels.
This limit is a reduction from the 20% proposed in the draft royal decree two years ago. Non-eutrophic reservoirs, however, are restricted to a maximum coverage of 5%.
These coverage limits can be further reduced based on factors such as the reservoir’s operating regime or existing uses and rights.
Floating solar panels are prohibited on lakes, lagoons, or other natural water bodies, and on surfaces that are highly modified or artificial but have some form of environmental protection.
Public reservoirs, managed by basin agencies, may see competitive tenders for granting permits to install floating solar plants, or licenses may be processed at the request of project developers.
Concessions for using public reservoirs for floating solar installations can be granted for up to 25 years.
For the latest in Spain’s solar scene, don’t miss registration for Solar & Storage Live Barcelona.
