A Landmark: 0.5MWp Offshore Solar Pilot Installed in Dutch North Sea
A significant milestone for renewable energy was achieved on July 4, 2024, with the successful installation of Merganser, a 0.5 MWp offshore floating solar pilot project. Developed by the Dutch-Norwegian firm SolarDuck in partnership with energy company RWE, the system is now operational at the North Sea Farmers’ test site, located approximately 12 kilometers off the coast of Scheveningen in the challenging waters of the Dutch North Sea.
The project showcases an innovative approach to harnessing solar power at sea. Comprising six interconnected platforms, the installation is engineered to withstand extreme offshore conditions. Its unique design allows it to float several metres above the water, effectively riding the waves “like a carpet,” as described in project documentation. This design ensures that the sensitive photovoltaic components remain dry and stable. The entire structure is secured by a mooring system anchored 20 meters below the surface, demonstrating a robust solution for deploying solar technology in one of the world’s most demanding marine environments.
Strategic Collaboration for Offshore Solar Innovation
The deployment of Merganser is the result of a powerful collaboration. RWE brings its extensive experience in offshore wind to the partnership, viewing offshore floating solar as a promising new frontier. Sven Utermöhlen, CEO of RWE Offshore Wind, highlighted the technology’s potential: “Standalone or in combination with offshore wind farms, offshore floating solar could open up further offshore renewable energy opportunities – especially for countries with lower average wind speeds but lots of sunlight.” He emphasized that the project will provide invaluable experience in a challenging environment.
SolarDuck’s CEO, Koen Burgers, underscored the collective effort required for such an achievement. “The successful installation of Merganser is proof of the dedication of SolarDuck’s team to electrify the world with offshore floating solar,” he stated, acknowledging the crucial support from RWE and other key partners like TNO, TU Delft, MARIN, Deltares, and supply chain experts including Damen Shipyards, TMA, and Norsk Hydro.
Monitoring the 0.5MWp Offshore Solar Pilot Project
With the installation complete, the project now enters a critical two-year monitoring phase. The performance and resilience of the Merganser pilot will be meticulously tracked by more than 180 sensors collecting data on structural loads, mooring stresses, and overall electrical performance. This extensive data collection will be instrumental in validating and refining the technology for future large-scale commercial deployment.
In parallel, the Dutch research institute Deltares will conduct a comprehensive study on the ecological impact of the floating solar array to ensure its sustainable integration with marine ecosystems. The insights gathered from the Merganser pilot operation are expected to pave the way for a new chapter in renewable energy, offering a scalable solution to advance global energy security and climate goals.
Sources
- SolarDuck and RWE successfully install offshore floating solar pilot …
- Offshore solar pilot launches in North Sea | News – Maritime Journal
- Floating Solar – No2NuclearPower
- SolarDuck, RWE Install Offshore Solar Pilot in Dutch North Sea
- SolarDuck and RWE install floating solar pilot at North Sea test site …
- SolarDuck, RWE install offshore floating solar pilot in North Sea
- SolarDuck, RWE install offshore PV pilot in Dutch North Sea
- SolarDuck and RWE successfully install offshore floating solar pilot …
- [PDF] SolarDuck and RWE successfully install offshore floating solar pilot …
- Mocean Energy, SolarDuck collaborate on floating offshore solar
