Floating Solar: Philippines Launches First Hybrid And Floating Photovoltaic Hydroelectric Project

Suzhou, China /PRNewswire/ - The first 200 kW floating solar energy project in the Philippines launched by Ocean Sun, a leading solar energy company based in Norway, has recently been launched. service. This joint project is part of the partnership between Ocean Sun and GCL-SI, the main supplier of modules used for the construction of the floating solar installation. The pilot plant is SN Aboitiz Power-Magat's (SNAP) first non-hydropower project, one of the leading renewable energy companies in the Philippines.

Located in the 1170-hectare Magat Reservoir, this specially designed facility was designed to withstand disruptive weather and violent typhoons. The project will be pilot tested for a period of ten months and will initially be used to meet the internal load requirements of the SNAP hydroelectric plant at Magat. If successful, SNAP will investigate the possibility of increasing the scope of the project so that the generated electricity can contribute to its renewable energy capacity and the country's energy security.

Eric Luo , President of GCL-SI, said, "GCL has been active in developing cost-effective renewable energy globally. The cooperation with Ocean Sun on this innovative project in the Philippines once again underscores the trust we have built with our global partners. "

As a new opportunity-creating technology, floating solar installations, the installation of photovoltaic panels on a body of water, are seen as an advantage for countries where demand for land is high. Alfonso Cusi , secretary of the PhilippineDepartment of Energy , said the potential of floating solar power would provide an essential boost to energy supply, with the country's energy demand reaching 11,000 MW.

Through an agreement between Ocean Sun and GCL-SI at Shanghai SNEC, the two companies have cooperated in the development of photovoltaic modules for floating PV solutions and floating solar installations. GCL-SI will further strengthen its research and development of high-efficiency products, helping Ocean Sun to build solar power facilities to meet rapid economic growth and growing demand for renewable energy in the Philippines .

"Establishing a partnership with GCL is a major step for Ocean Sun. It will optimize the technology for large scale deployment. We are very pleased to be able to count on GCL as a partner and look forward to the next level of floating solar energy, "said Øyvind Rohn, CEO and Børge Bjørneklett, President and Technical Director of Ocean Sun.