Solar Goes To Sea

Giant wave-riding platform design puts solar power out to sea

David Szondy, April 25, 2016 (GizMag)

“Sea-based wind farms are becoming a common sight in many parts of the world…[and engineers] at the Vienna University of Technology foresee a future where platforms 100 m (330 ft) long and covered with solar panels float on even heavy seas thanks to a new floatation system called Heliofloat…Relocating panels offshore could make for installations of incredible size and generating potential, but…[they would face] tempests with waves that can pound a floating platform to kindling…[T]he TU Wien team claims that its Heliofloat system can support lightweight platforms the size of football fields that are stable even in heavy seas…[TU Wien is exploring other applications including desalination plants, biomass extraction, and protection of lakes from evaporation ]for the Heliofloat technology as it seeks partners and investors...” click here for more

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