A groundbreaking research initiative was officially presented to the public, as over 190 floating solar modules were inaugurated on Mortkasee, an artificial lake in Saxony. The project, titled “PV2Float,” is a collaboration between RWE, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE), and Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg (BTU), with sponsorship from the German Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action.

Floating solar for a sustainable future

While photovoltaic (PV) systems on rooftops and fields are a familiar sight, floating solar technology remains relatively new. This project seeks to explore the technical, environmental, and social dimensions of floating solar islands. By installing three distinct systems, each with a capacity of around 30 kW, researchers aim to refine the technology, enhance its efficiency, and assess its ecological compatibility.

Mayor Thomas Leberecht of Lohsa highlighted the region’s role in advancing renewable energy:
“Mortkasee, originally formed from the flooded Werminghoff lignite mine, now serves as a pioneering site for floating solar research in Germany. The cooling effect of the water can increase solar module efficiency, while utilizing former mine lakes for green electricity generation offers immense potential for our energy transition.”

Cutting-edge research and public engagement

The floating solar islands, while small in scale, are set to operate until 2027, providing critical insights into the cost-effectiveness and scalability of this technology. Representatives from science, industry, and government, including the Saxon Ministry of Energy, Climate Protection, Environment and Agriculture, attended the plant’s inauguration. Local residents also had the opportunity to learn about the technology and its potential benefits.

A partnership of expertise

RWE brings extensive experience in large-scale solar operations, including a floating PV plant in the Netherlands. Fraunhofer ISE, Europe’s leading solar research institute, focuses on advancing floating PV technologies and studying public acceptance. BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg contributes deep expertise in aquatic ecology, ensuring the technology aligns with environmental standards.

This innovative initiative could pave the way for floating solar to play a significant role in Germany’s renewable energy landscape, offering a sustainable use for bodies of water like Mortkasee while driving the energy transition forward.