Chinese GCL System Integration Technology Co., Ltd., part of the Golden Concorde Group (GCL-SI) and its Norwegian partner Ocean Sun switched on the Philippines first 200 kw floating photovoltaic (FPV) project.
The pilot facility is the first non-hydro project of Philippine renewable energy company SN Aboitiz Power-Magat (SNAP).
Located in the 1,170-hectare Magat reservoir, the purpose-built facility has been designed to withstand disruptive weather conditions and strong typhoons. The project will go through a pilot test lasting for ten months, and will initially serve house load requirements of SNAP's Magat hydro. If successful, SNAP will look into scaling up the project so that the power generated may contribute to its renewable energy capacity and to the country's energy security.
Through an agreement between Ocean Sun and GCL-SI, the two companies have co-operated on the development of PV modules for floating PV solutions and floating solar facilities. According to the company, GCL-SI »will further strengthen its research and development into high-efficiency products, supporting Ocean Sun for the construction of solar energy facilities to match the rapid economic growth and ever-increasing demand for renewable energy in the Philippines.«
Alfonso Cusi, Secretary for the Department of Energy of the Philippines, noted that the potential of floating solar would provide a much-needed boost to the energy supply as the country demand for power reaches 11,000 MW.
