The core of SUNdy is a 2 MW hexagonal array which floats on the sea surface. The scalable design can be deployed independently or linked together with others, providing electricity that can grow with societal needs. The SUNdy concept is made possible using thin-film 560 W solar panels. Thin-film solar panels are cheaper and gaining market share, with efficiencies approaching those of crystalline silicone. These thin-film panels are flexible and lighter than the traditional rigid glass-based modules, allowing them to undulate with the ocean’s surface.
Creating solar islands
An array of SUNdy floating modules would be manufactured as a pre-wired unit, significantly reducing the number of electrical connections while also minimising the need for offshore assembly. A collection of these arrays, totaling 4,200 solar panels, forms an expansive solar island the size of a large football stadium, capable of generating 2 MW of power. Multiple islands connected together constitute a solar field of 50 MW or more, producing enough electricity for 30,000 people. Islands would ideally be located in benign waters with depths ranging from 20–100 m and approximately five miles from shore away from shipping lanes.
The main beneftis include:
- The oceans provide abundant space close to energy demand
- Absence of moving mechanical parts gives high reliability with low operating costs
- Buoyancy supports the panels, allowing for a simple structure
- Low visual profile in the ocean, avoiding visual disturbance
- Air and seawater cooling promote higher efficiencies
- Abundant water for cleaning
- The modular scaleable system is cost effective to manufacture
- Environmentally friendly
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2012/oct/25/solar-islands-clean-energy-source
http://www.kema.com/services/consulting/pgr/solar/SUNdy.aspx
http://www.kema.com/Images/Leaflet%20SUNdy.pdf
http://www.kema.com/Images/Leaflet%20SUNdy.pdf
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