Floating Solar Power (Floatovoltaics)

With land scarcity in India, floating solar panels (also known as floatovoltaics) are emerging as a powerful solution. By installing solar arrays on lakes, ponds, or reservoirs, we can save land and increase efficiency. In this blog, we’ll cover the cost of floating solar panels per acre in India, their benefits, and installation requirements.

🔆 What are Floating Solar Panels?

Floating solar systems use solar modules mounted on buoyant structures that float on water surfaces. These structures are anchored for stability and connected to the power grid.

💰 Floating Solar Panels Cost per Acre in India (2025)

• 1 acre of water surface can hold ~1 MW of floating solar panels.
• Cost per MW → ₹5–6 Crore (depending on technology & location).
• Cost per acre → ₹5–6 Crore (since 1 acre ≈ 1 MW capacity).

👉 Although the upfront cost is higher than rooftop systems, floating solar panels provide long-term savings and reduce evaporation loss from reservoirs.

🌍 Benefits of Floating Solar Power

1. No Land Requirement → Utilizes unused water bodies.
2. Higher Efficiency → Water keeps panels cool, improving performance by 10–15%.
3. Reduces Evaporation → Protects valuable water resources.
4. Eco-Friendly → Supports India’s clean energy targets.

🔧 How Floating Solar Systems are Installed

1. Buoyant Structures are placed on water surface.
2. Solar Panels are mounted and connected via waterproof wiring.
3. Anchoring System prevents drifting.
4. Power Cables connect system to grid/substation.

📈 Floating Solar Projects in India

• NTPC Ramagundam (100 MW, Telangana) → India’s largest floating solar project.
• Kerala (Banasura Sagar Reservoir) → First large-scale floating solar plant.

🙋 FAQs about Floating Solar Panels

Q1. How much does floating solar cost compared to land solar?
👉 Floating solar costs 15–20% more than ground-mounted systems, but efficiency is higher.

Q2. Can floating solar be installed on small ponds?
👉 Yes, but it is most cost-effective on larger reservoirs/lakes.

Q3. Do floating panels harm aquatic life?
👉 No, if designed properly. In fact, they reduce water temperature and algae growth.

Q4. What is the lifespan of floating solar panels?
👉 25–30 years, similar to traditional panels.

Conclusion
Floating solar panels cost per acre may seem high, but with rising land costs, they are a practical and efficient solution for large-scale solar projects. By 2030, India plans to add 10 GW+ floating solar capacity, making it a booming sector for investors and policymakers.