Daily Current Affairs : 9-August-2023
The National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) has recently made significant strides in the renewable energy sector by securing a bid for a floating solar capacity project at the Omkareshwar Reservoir in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh. This innovative approach to solar energy production holds the potential to revolutionize the way we generate electricity while addressing crucial environmental and resource challenges.
Understanding Floating Solar Projects
Floating solar projects, also known as floating solar photovoltaic systems or floating solar plants, involve the installation of solar panel structures on water bodies such as lakes, basins, and reservoirs. Unlike traditional solar installations on land, these systems offer a unique advantage – they require no additional land, which would otherwise compete with agriculture or construction needs. This concept is not entirely new, with Japan pioneering the construction of the first floating photovoltaic system back in 2007. Notably, the world’s largest floating solar farm is currently situated in Shandong, China.
The State of Floating Solar Projects in India
In India, the adoption of floating solar projects is still in its nascent stages, accounting for less than 1% of total solar installations. While the initial costs of setting up a floating system are higher (about 20-25% more) compared to ground-mounted systems, the long-term benefits are gaining attention. A study conducted by TERI in collaboration with the Energy Transmission Commission India program reveals that as of 2019, 7 MW capacity photovoltaic projects were operational, while over 1.7 GW were in various stages of development. Notably, the Indian government aims to achieve a renewable energy capacity of 500 GW by 2030, highlighting the significance of innovative approaches like floating solar projects.
Functioning of Floating Solar Plants
The core components of a floating solar plant include the floating system itself, a buoyancy body carrying the PV modules, an anchoring system with mooring lines for stability near the shore, and a power converter with wiring. The design of these systems can vary, allowing flexibility based on the specific requirements of each location.
Benefits of Floating Solar Projects
- Enhanced Electricity Production: The cooling effect of the water upon which the solar panels float can result in increased electricity generation compared to ground-mounted or rooftop systems.
- Land Conservation: By utilizing water surfaces for solar installations, the challenge of land acquisition is bypassed, saving valuable land resources for other purposes.
- Water Conservation: Depending on the coverage area and environmental conditions, floating solar plants can help reduce water loss due to evaporation. The cleaning water used for the PV system is returned to the water body, leading to water and cost savings.
- Climate Change Mitigation: These projects can contribute to minimizing the impacts of climate change on water bodies. They create a cooling effect, lower wind speed, reduce solar radiation, and discourage algae growth, ultimately enhancing water quality.
Challenges and Considerations
While the potential benefits of floating solar projects are promising, several challenges persist:
- Ecological Impact: The influence of floating solar systems on aquatic ecosystems requires careful study to mitigate any negative effects.
- Technical Expertise: Due to the relative novelty of this technology, there is a need for ongoing research and expertise development.
- Durability: Long-term exposure to saltwater and waves can potentially lead to damage and deterioration of the floating structures.
Important Points:
Understanding Floating Solar Projects:
- Floating solar photovoltaic systems built on water bodies like lakes, basins, and reservoirs.
- Eliminates the need for additional land, preserving land resources for agriculture and construction.
- Japan’s pioneering efforts in 2007; world’s largest floating solar farm in Shandong, China.
State of Floating Solar Projects in India:
- Less than 1% of total solar installations in India are floating.
- Initial costs higher (20-25%) compared to ground-mounted systems.
- Study by TERI and Energy Transmission Commission India: 7 MW operational, 1.7 GW in development.
- Indian government targets 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030.
Functioning of Floating Solar Plants:
- Components: floating system, buoyancy body, anchoring system, power converter with wiring.
- Flexible design to suit specific location requirements.
Benefits of Floating Solar Projects:
- Increased electricity production due to water’s cooling effect on panels.
- Land conservation: no land acquisition required.
- Water conservation: reduced evaporation, cleaning water returned to the water body.
- Climate change mitigation: cooling effect, reduced wind speed, lower solar radiation, improved water quality.
Challenges and Considerations:
- Ecological impact on aquatic ecosystems.
- Need for ongoing research and technical expertise.
- Durability concerns due to saltwater and waves.
Why In News
The National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) has achieved a significant milestone by successfully winning the bid for a groundbreaking floating solar capacity project situated on the serene waters of the Omkareshwar Reservoir in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh. This innovative initiative not only underscores NTPC’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions but also highlights their dedication to harnessing the power of renewable resources to meet the growing energy demands of the region.
MCQs about The Promise of Floating Solar Projects
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What is the primary advantage of floating solar projects compared to traditional ground-mounted solar installations?
A. Higher initial cost
B. Greater land acquisition
C. Increased electricity production
D. Reduced water conservation
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Which country constructed the world’s first floating photovoltaic system?
A. India
B. China
C. Japan
D. United States
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What potential benefits do floating solar projects offer for water bodies?
A. Increased wind speed and solar radiation
B. Reduction in water quality
C. Enhanced evaporation
D. Climate change mitigation and improved water quality
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