China is increasingly turning its attention to the vast potential of solar energy at sea, with state-run companies exploring installations as far as 30 kilometers offshore.
As a global leader in renewable energy, China has been exploring various marine-based energy sources such as wind, waves, and tides. Now, it is looking to harness the sun’s power on the ocean’s surface.
While the concept of ocean-based solar power is relatively new, some early adopters, like Norwegian fish farms, have already successfully implemented floating solar panel systems. These systems consist of rows of solar panels placed on large floating membranes anchored to the sea floor.
The appeal of ocean-based solar power lies in its ability to utilize vast expanses of water near densely populated coastal areas, where land is limited and in high demand for other uses like agriculture or urbanization.
China has begun its foray into ocean-based solar power, with China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) initiating a 400-megawatt project in Lahou Bay off the coast of Shandong province. This project involves installing solar panels on posts attached to the sea floor in waters between 8.5 and 11 meters deep.
Despite these promising developments, the sector is still in its early stages in China. The country added a significant amount of solar power capacity last year, but only a small fraction of that was from ocean-based installations. However, interest is growing, especially as China looks to reduce transmission costs by locating solar farms closer to coastal cities where electricity demand is high.
The Chinese government has encouraged provinces and state-run energy firms to conduct research and development in this area. Shandong province, with its extensive coastline, has emerged as a leader in this field, setting ambitious targets for both fixed and floating ocean-based solar power capacity by 2025.
While the potential for ocean-based solar power in China is significant, there are challenges to overcome. These include technical issues such as corrosion of electronics in saltwater and the impact of rough seas on floating installations. Additionally, there is a need for industry regulations and standards to ensure the safe and sustainable development of this emerging sector.
Despite these challenges, China’s advanced manufacturing capabilities and experience in onshore solar power give it a strong foundation to lead the way in developing ocean-based solar power. With continued investment and innovation, China could play a key role in unlocking the vast potential of solar energy at sea.