Advantages of Solar Islands:

5 times lower cost per kWh than competing systems, because:

• extremely simple low-cost EFC type panels can be used
• alignment achieved by simply turning the platform (no costly precision mechanics), the active area of panels can be more than 95% of the available area
• very low sensitivity to wind, so that high up times are feasible
• the platforms are hovering, therefore very large platforms can be build
• the thermal principle allows to store energy, so energy can also be supplied at night
• the active area of panels can be more than 95% of the available area

 

Additional Advantages of Solar Islands on the Sea

Typically near the equator where the solar irradiation is very intense.

• Water, needed to generate hydrogen and cooling is available in abundance
• Combination with water desalination is easily possible through collection and passive evaporation.
• In international waters, prime locations are open to all nations
• The platforms can “follow the sun”, gaining 15% of efficiency