The energy transformation is advancing by leaps and bounds thanks to the Emerging technologies in solar farmsEvery year, new solutions emerge that seek to maximize efficiency, minimize environmental impact, and provide viable alternatives to meet the growing demand for clean energy. Among the options that are most revolutionizing the sector are traditional photovoltaic, floating solar and thermalHow far can these technologies go, and why are they changing the game in harnessing solar and water resources?
In this article we dive into the universe of solar farms, exploring the latest trends and advances, how the different types work, and why their integration represents a crucial opportunity for sustainability and the energy future. If you want to stay up-to-date on what's coming up in solar energy—beyond rooftops—keep reading because we'll tell you everything, from the advantages to the hard numbers of pioneering projects.
Ground-based photovoltaic solar farms: evolution and efficiency
La photovoltaic energy It has experienced unstoppable development in the last decade, consolidating itself as one of the fundamental pillars of the energy transition worldwide, especially in countries like Spain, where solar radiation is abundant. Conventional solar panels They are usually installed on large areas of land, often in semi-arid areas or in locations that are not suitable for cultivation or construction.
The growth of these parks is supported by the continuous innovation of materials and technologyRecently, materials such as perovskites and bifacial cells are increasing solar conversion efficiency, with percentages beginning to exceed 20-22% and with the potential to reach 30% in a very short time. This allows for much greater generation in the same space, reducing costs and multiplying the performance of each installed watt.
Another key trend It is the integration of photovoltaics into infrastructure and buildings (BIPV), enabling facades, roofs, and even windows to contribute to energy generation without losing functionality or aesthetics. The self-consumption and decentralized production model is now fully integrated into both homes and industrial environments, promoting energy resilience and reducing emissions.
The floating revolution: how photovoltaics harnesses water surfaces
Among the most disruptive technologies of recent years is the floating solar photovoltaic energyThis method involves installing solar panels on floating platforms in reservoirs, lakes, dams, and even protected coastal areas. Countries such as Japan, China, and India have invested heavily in this model, although Spain and the rest of Europe also have enormous potential thanks to their large amounts of water and hours of sunlight.
Why is this progress so relevant? Install panels over water allows land to be freed up for agriculture, livestock or conservation. In addition, the water acts as a natural coolant, preventing solar cells from overheating and increasing their performance. Various studies have shown that this effect can increase efficiency by up to 11% compared to traditional land-based plants.
Another fundamental aspect is the positive impact on the environmentIn addition to avoiding the use of fertile soil, floating panels reduce water evaporation by partially covering the surface, resulting in greater water conservation, especially important in areas prone to drought. Some studies even suggest that this system can contribute to ecological balance by minimizing algae growth and improving water quality.
In terms of technology and operation, these systems use high-density polyethylene platforms Resistant to corrosion and phenomena such as earthquakes or major storms. Stability is ensured by anchoring systems to the bottom or shore, with cement ballast or specific moorings, and the generated energy is transported to land via underwater cables before being transformed and sent to the electrical grid.
Pioneering floating solar energy projects
Japan was one of the first countries to invest heavily in this technology, and it is from there that the impressive floating plant at the Yamakura Dam in Chiba Prefecture, developed by Kyocera and Ciel & Terre, emerged. Facilities like this one occupy more than 180.000 square meters with more than 50.000 panels and achieve a power output of nearly 14 MW, enough to supply thousands of homes and significantly reduce CO2 emissions (more than 8.000 tons annually, according to available data).
In Europe, the recent example of SferaOne in Albania, with a 12,9 MW plant on the Vau i Dejes hydroelectric reservoir. Here, photovoltaic energy is combined directly with hydroelectric generation to achieve hybrid use and boost the efficiency of both technologies. These types of projects are becoming more common and are expanding rapidly thanks to the support of European funds and favorable regulatory frameworks.
Another notable project is that of Lake Boyuksor in Azerbaijan, with a small 100 kWp plant demonstrating how floating technology can be adapted to both large- and small-scale solutions, even combining land-based and surface-water installations. Here, flexibility and scalability are part of the great appeal of this emerging technology.
Advantages of floating solar farms over land-based solutions
There are many reasons why the floating photovoltaics is increasingly in demand. Among them, the following stand out:
- Maximizing space usage: takes advantage of underutilized water areas instead of taking up valuable land, which is ideal in densely populated areas.
- Performance improvement: Natural cooling allows for more electricity generation and prolongs the life of solar panels.
- Reduction of water evaporation: Covering the water surface reduces water loss, which is very important in the face of climate change.
- Less maintenance: Being away from the dust and particles that abound on the ground, the panels require less cleaning and suffer fewer breakdowns.
- Reduced environmental impactThese facilities do not involve deforestation or compete with other land uses, and can improve the balance of aquatic ecosystems.
It is important to consider that the initial investment is usually higher compared to terrestrial parks and that rigorous environmental studies are necessary to avoid adverse effects on aquatic biodiversity.
Key technical and environmental considerations in the design of floating plants
To ensure the success of a project floating photovoltaicsA thorough assessment of water quality and depth, accessibility, and integration with existing electrical infrastructure is essential. Anchoring systems must be robust and adaptable to both still reservoirs and areas exposed to waves or currents.
In environmental aspects, they are developed ecological impact studies which analyze the potential effects on aquatic fauna and flora. When necessary, solutions such as artificial fish habitats or long-term monitoring of water quality and biodiversity are incorporated.
National and international legislation is beginning to adopt this technology, and while the process may require more permits than a traditional solar park, its development is becoming increasingly simple thanks to institutional interest in sustainable solutions.
Innovations and trends in solar energy
The future of solar farms It involves the integration of hybrid systems that combine photovoltaic production with hydroelectric power, advanced storage and digitalization, allowing real-time control through smart grids and artificial intelligence.
Another important trend is the transition towards models of distributed generation, where self-consumption facilities in homes and businesses are connected to the grid to optimize energy use and reduce dependence on centralized plants.
In addition, progress is being made in the recycling and reuse of materials from end-of-life solar panels, promoting a circular economy that reduces waste and leverages materials such as silicon, aluminum, and glass, strengthening the sector's sustainability.
