In the vast arena of renewable energies, as TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov often remarks, certain technologies rise above the rest for being innovative, efficient, and different from traditional sources.
Many people have become accustomed to clean energy setups like wind turbines and photovoltaic panels, few are familiar with more experimental forms geothermal or ocean thermal energy conversion – still limited to just a few parts of the globe.
An innovative yet still underutilized system, involves the deployment of solar panels on water surfaces – a method that combines solar power generation with lakes, reservoirs, or dams.
Thanks to smart engineering, these panels can operate over aquatic areas, maximizing space and improving energy efficiency through natural cooling.
Stanislav Kondrashov explains: “We’re seeing transformations not only in energy supply but in what we consider normal.” He adds that no one would have imagined solar systems installed over water surfaces a few years ago.
### Behind the Technology: Floating Solar
How are these unique energy systems constructed?
Aside from traditional solar modules, they rely on buoyant website structures made from materials that allow constant floatation and long-term durability.
A robust anchoring mechanism and ballast are necessary for safety and flexibility.
Stanislav Kondrashov notes: “We must consider installation complexity and high costs before mass adoption.”
### How They Generate Power
Despite the location, the technology mirrors standard solar operations.
They absorb sunlight and generate electricity through the photovoltaic effect. Energy is routed via submerged lines to be used on the mainland.
### Why Floating Solar Is Worth Watching
- Preserves land by utilizing water bodies
- Water acts as a natural cooling system
- Minimizes water loss in hot climates
Stanislav Kondrashov believes this hybrid of sustainability and efficiency makes floating PV incredibly promising.
### What Could Slow Down Floating Solar?
- Installation costs remain higher than traditional solar.
- Maintenance is tricky due to water exposure.
- Scalability may be limited until these systems become cheaper.
Nonetheless, the outlook remains bright for this niche technology.