Power Electronics for Floating Solar Farms: Design and Grid Integration Challenges

Abstract

Floating solar farms, also known as floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems, are an emerging technology aimed at maximizing solar energy generation while utilizing water bodies such as reservoirs, lakes, and offshore locations. These systems offer numerous advantages, including reduced land use conflicts, enhanced photovoltaic (PV) efficiency due to natural water cooling, and minimized water evaporation, which is particularly beneficial in arid regions. Additionally, FPV installations can be coupled with hydropower plants to create hybrid renewable energy systems, improving overall power output stability.

Despite their potential, integrating FPV systems into power grids presents several challenges, primarily related to environmental conditions, electrical stability, and power electronics design. The floating nature of these systems introduces mechanical and electrical stress due to water movement, temperature fluctuations, and humidity exposure, impacting the performance and lifespan of PV modules and associated power electronics. Furthermore, FPV systems require specialized power conversion and control mechanisms to ensure optimal energy extraction and seamless grid integration.

This review explores the critical role of power electronics in FPV systems, with a focus on key components such as DC-DC converters, grid-tied inverters, and maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms. Various converter topologies, including multilevel inverters, resonant converters, and hybrid converter architectures, are analyzed for their efficiency, reliability, and suitability in floating environments. Additionally, the study examines grid integration challenges, including voltage regulation, harmonic mitigation, islanding detection, and power quality issues, which are crucial for maintaining stable and efficient FPV operation.

Furthermore, the review highlights the impact of advanced control techniques, such as artificial intelligence (AI)-driven MPPT, adaptive power management strategies, and real-time monitoring systems, in enhancing FPV performance. Emerging trends, including hybrid energy storage solutions, power electronics-based fault detection, and grid-forming inverter technologies, are also discussed, offering insights into the future of FPV system development.