The new system is designed by Norwegian solar firm Ocean Sun to withstand stronger waves and rougher conditions associated with marine environments so that solar energy can be harnessed reliably. It is being tested by conglomerate Keppel's subsidiary Keppel Energy Nexus.
Speaking at the Energy Innovation 2022 conference on Friday at Marina Bay Sands, Minister of State for Trade and Industry Low Yen Ling said that the power sector currently accounts for 40 per cent of Singapore's carbon emissions, and a move to reach net-zero by 2050 would require collaboration from all of society - including the Government, industries and businesses.
Keppel said in a separate statement that conventional floating solar systems here are kept afloat with multiple floating units, and are generally deployed in calmer water bodies like reservoirs. The awarded projects were selected based on their innovativeness, commercialisation potential and scalability, said the agencies.
While Singapore has made huge investments in clean energy sources, it is also funding research to ensure its power grid can adapt to various sources of clean energy while ensuring its reliability and stability.
Why float on the water ? Eco-system no longer a priority ? We forget there are fishes, plants and organisms in the water ? The panels could also be attacked by algae and fungi. Why not on lifted-up structure ?