A large floating solar farm has begun operations in Thailand. Solar cells installed on the water's surface harness sunlight during the day, while three turbines convert hydropower at night.
The system combines two types of renewable electricity generation at the Sirindhorn Reservoir in Ubon Ratchathani province, located about 660 kilometers from the capital, Bangkok. A total of 145,000 solar panels have been installed. The 45 MW of peak power produced by the project complements existing dam operations, which can generate an additional 36 MW and supply electricity to three provinces in eastern Thailand.
In terms of size, the plant is equivalent to about 70 soccer fields, making it larger than Singapore's, which spans 45 hectares. Furthermore, it is the largest hybrid energy system in the world.
Benefits
The state-owned Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) lists several advantages of the new plant. These include its low cost compared to its power generation capacity, savings on land costs—a necessary expense for traditional solar plants—and the use of existing energy infrastructure. As both share the same transmission lines and transformers, space and resources are utilized to their full potential.
According to EGAT, the project does not have negative impacts on society or the environment. “It does not affect agricultural areas, community boating routes, or the daily activities of local residents.” The selected double-glass solar panels are suitable for installation on water surfaces, as they are highly moisture-resistant and non-contaminating.
Another benefit of installing solar panels on water is that it reduces panel heat, making them 10% to 15% more efficient, and reduces water evaporation in the reservoir by approximately 460,000 m³ per year.
Among other benefits, the state-owned utility also sees the system as an opportunity to ensure greater stability for the electrical grid while expecting to reduce its dependence on natural gas, which currently accounts for nearly two-thirds of Thailand's power generation.
The newly opened hybrid plant is just one of 16 similar facilities planned across the Southeast Asian country. The largest, scheduled for 2035, will have an installed capacity of 325 MW. If the program is completed as planned, the total energy capacity will reach 2,725 MW.
Furthermore, according to the government, the project will help reduce CO2 emissions by about 47,000 tons per year—an effort to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, as promised at COP26.
Environmental education
Alongside the plant's opening, a project was developed to transform the surrounding area into a renewable energy learning center for students and the general public. The Nature Walkway is a 415-meter-long path built to boost tourism. Attractions include a local market, a souvenir shop, a bicycle rental shop, a tour bus, and a rafting zone.
“The plant will help generate jobs and income for the community, allowing it to become self-sufficient while also boosting the province's overall economy,” states EGAT.
Via CicloVivo.
This article was written by Marcia Sousa. The translation is powered by AI.
