According to a recent study by researchers from the Renewable Energies Chair at the University of Évora in Portugal, the potential for floating photovoltaic systems in Portugal exceeds the country's national goal of 7 GW for PV energy in the electrical sector by 2030, as defined in the National Energy and Climate Plan (PNEC).
The study identified the region of Alentejo in south-central and southern Portugal as having the greatest potential for floating photovoltaic systems due to its combination of water surfaces and solar resources.
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Even when an 85% reduction is applied to the total surface area of water available at the national level, the potential for floating photovoltaic solar energy systems in Portugal can reach at least an estimated national capacity of 10.8 GW.
Luís Fialho, a researcher at the University of Évora's Renewable Energies Chair, explained, “The analysis results from a mapping of the potential areas for floating photovoltaic solar systems applied in the national territory, establishing a relationship between the availability of solar radiation and the geographical distribution of the bodies of water in the different regions of the country.”
This study highlights the potential of floating photovoltaic systems in Portugal, and the University of Évora's Renewable Energies Chair is currently supervising Sierra Brava, the largest European experimental plant for floating photovoltaic systems, owned by Acciona Energía. The plant comprises five different technologies with a total power of 1,125 MW.
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In response to these findings, Fialho said, “We hope that this study will help to stimulate investment in floating photovoltaic systems in Portugal and encourage the development of renewable energy sources in the country.”
The potential for floating photovoltaic systems in Portugal could make a significant contribution to the country's renewable energy targets and reduce its reliance on non-renewable sources of energy. This study provides valuable insight into the potential of floating photovoltaic systems and could serve as a useful reference for policymakers and investors.
