Solar power construction leaves land behind as floating systems gain ground

[C C]

Solar power leaves land behind as floating systems gain ground
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1128174

EXCERPT: “What we found is that offshore floating solar systems can generate more electricity over their lifetime — about 12% more than land-based systems under the same conditions,” said author Ching-Feng Chen. “Because of this higher energy output, they also achieve greater carbon emission reductions. In simple terms, even though both systems use similar technology, placing solar panels on water can make them more effective.” One important reason for this is the cooling effect of the surrounding water. Excessive heat compromises the efficiency of solar panels, and water absorbs heat... (MORE - no ads)

PAPER: http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/5.0268803

 

[TheVat]

One important reason for this is the cooling effect of the surrounding water. Excessive heat compromises the efficiency of solar panels, and water absorbs heat..

I hadn't realized heat would be that much a factor in PV efficiency but it makes sense. Any system where heat is bumping electrons loose in semiconductor atoms would be susceptible to diminished band gap. (Materials with a low band gap require very little energy to free electrons, but they produce very low voltage. The decreased voltage outweighs the increased current, so there's net power loss)

I'm guessing they are working out technical problems, e.g. salt corrosion, large wave events, tugging on electrical connectors, etc. Sheltered harbors with a fairly placid weather pattern would seem important for such an installation.