DNV introduces SUNdy offshore solar concept

Dutch company DNV has developed and launched an offshore floating solar field, SUNdy, that comprises a hexagonal array of panels floating on the sea surface.

Several arrays create one solar island and contain about 4,200 solar panels able to generate 2MW of power. Solar field of multiple connected islands can together produce 50MW or more.

The technology was unveiled at Singapore Energy Week held recently.

DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability Asia COO Bjørn Tore Markussen remarked, "Renewable energy is becoming increasingly important in nations across the globe, including Asia, and with such a readily available and abundant source that is rapidly approaching grid parity levels, it’s solar power that’s attracting a lot of interest in this part of the world."

DNV Clean Technology Centre Singapore MD Sanjay Kuttan said that the SUNdy concept uses thin-film 560W solar panels, flexible and lighter compared to traditional rigid glass-based modules.

"The key to creating an ocean-based structure of this size is the use of a tension-only design.

"Rather like a spider’s web, this dynamic, compliant structure yields to the waves, yet is capable of withstanding considerable external loads acting upon it," he added.

DNV KEMA’s Renewable Energy Services global segment director Kevin Smith said, "The solar arrays are divided into electrical zones feeding electricity produced into two main switches collecting the power for voltage step up at a central transformer (2MVA 480/34.5kV).

"From the offshore solar farm’s central island, 30kV electrical transmission lines connect, tying other islands in series to form a close loop and continue to the electrical sub-station onshore for grid connection."