DNV launches its SUNdy floating solar field model

Researchers at DNV have designed SUNdy, a dynamic floating large-scale offshore solar field concept, with its main feature being a hexagonal array that floats on the sea surface.

A collection of 4,200 solar panels form a solar island the size of a large football stadium, capable of generating 2MW of power. A number of islands linked together would make up a solar field of 50MW or more, which could supply electricity for 30,000 people.

“For DNV, technological innovation is a key element in our strategy to help address these concerns and SUNdy, as an example of our research work, can help illustrate future applications for solar as a truly sustainable resource,” said Bjørn Tore Markussen, chief operations officer in Asia for DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability.

“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, its solar power that’s attracting a lot of interest in this part of the world.”

The SUNdy model has been designed using thin-film 560W solar panels, which are flexible and lighter than the traditional rigid glass-based modules, allowing them to undulate with the ocean’s surface explained Sanjay Kuttan, managing director of the DNV Clean Technology Centre in Singapore.

The unveiling of the SUNdy concept coincides with the increased market growth of solar photovoltaics (PV).

Around 30GW of operating capacity has been added, increasing total global capacity by 74 per cent to more than 69GW, according to the Renewable Energy Policy Network 2012 report.