Do you think Floating solar plants could solve land acquisition issues?.
India has an ambitious target of achieving 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 and the major component of India’s renewable energy plan is solar energy. The biggest impediment in setting up solar energy plants is non availability of land. Floating solar plants offer a solution to land unavailability.
Benefits of floating solar plants
- Reduce water evaporation
Solar panels act as cover against direct action of sun on water surface. It prevents wastage of water due to evaporation.
- Increase efficiency
The water present below the solar panels keep the instruments cool, thereby increasing its efficiency and capabilities.
- Optimal usage of land
Land unavailability can be tackled by setting up solar power plants in reservoirs and lakes. Land can be utilised for farming and associated activities.
Drawbacks of floating solar plants
- High cost
The cost of setting up floating solar plants is high as additional requirements have to be fulfilled to keep solar panels from drowning in water.
- Increased maintenance
The cost and time involved in maintaining floating solar plants is higher in comparison to conventional plants. This is because of continuous exposure to water.
Thus, floating solar plants are indeed a way of adhering to our renewable energy targets. This will also ensure that India achieves its net zero targets by 2070.
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