admin@acquainfra.com

Innovative Water-Based Solar Energy Solutions for a Greener Future

floating solar energy
Author : admin
Date : 06.05.25

With growing urbanization and shrinking land availability, the world is looking toward smarter ways to harness the sun. That’s where floating solar steps in — a revolutionary concept where solar panels float over water bodies like reservoirs, lakes, and dams, generating clean energy without occupying precious land.

Floatovoltaics or floating solar is installing photovoltaic (PV) panels on the surface of still water bodies. The platforms are designed to be light in weight but highly durable, made from UV-stable HDPE material, and securely anchored so that they won't drift. Power produced from these panels is fed to the shore and to the grid as with land solar farms.

What is Floating Solar Energy?

Floating solar (also known as floatovoltaics) refers to solar panels installed on floating platforms over water bodies like reservoirs, lakes, and dams.

Instead of occupying large tracts of land, these panels sit on buoyant, modular structures that harness solar power efficiently while reducing land use.

 How it Works:

  • Modular floats support photovoltaic panels
  • Anchoring system holds the floating platform in place
  • Cables connect the floating system to the grid on land
  • Electricity is generated and transmitted, just like regular solar farms

Why Floating Solar is a Game-Changer

Key Benefits:

 No Land Use Conflicts
Utilizes unused water surfaces - ideal for countries with land scarcity.

 Higher Efficiency
Water keeps the panels cooler, improving performance up to 10-15%.

 Reduces Water Evaporation
Perfect for reservoirs and irrigation tanks in dry areas.

 Environmentally Friendly
Reduces carbon footprint, protects aquatic ecosystems from overheating.

 Scalable & Modular
Can be designed for small ponds or large industrial reservoirs.

At the global level, China, Japan and the Netherlands are leading the charge with large-scale floating solar deployments. China is ahead with more than 1.5 GW of capacity, but India is charging ahead with major projects in Kerala, Telangana and West Bengal. India alone is planning 10 GW of floating solar capacity by 2030 — and that's a huge opportunity for clean-tech players and infrastructure providers.

This leads us to how AIPL (Acqua Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd.) is actually making a difference. AIPL is in the business of providing end-to-end modular floating solutions. From engineering and designing to manufacturing and on-site installation, they're revolutionizing how clean energy can be installed on water. Their modular floating systems are constructed with UV-resistant HDPE, guaranteeing long-term durability, even in harsh weather conditions. Whether it's a small village lake or a large industrial reservoir, AIPL cuts each solution with precision.

AIPL doesn't only produce floats, though — they offer holistic services such as anchoring system design, grid integration support, and even maintenance after installation. They assist customers in complying with international solar standards and provide scalable export solutions. It's the complete approach that makes AIPL a go-to name in India's floating solar journey.

If you're questioning if floating solar is appropriate for your project — if you are a solar developer, government entity, or commercial enterprise — AIPL's group can assist in determining feasibility, tailoring modular platforms, and realizing your dream, literally afloat on the water.

How AIPL Delivers Floating Solar Projects

At Acqua Infra Projects (AIPL), we go beyond manufacturing — we provide end-to-end solutions for floating solar deployment.

 AIPL’s Floating Solar Capabilities:

  • Design & Engineering of floating structures
  • Durable Modular Floats (UV-resistant, corrosion-proof)
  • Custom Anchoring Systems
  • Logistics & Installation Support
  • Integration with Existing Infrastructure (dams, reservoirs, irrigation canals)
  • After-Sales Support & Maintenance Plans

FAQs

1. What are Energy Floating Solar Panels?

Energy Floating Solar Panels are solar photovoltaic (PV) systems installed on floating platforms over water bodies to generate clean and renewable electricity without occupying land.

2. What is the Acqua Energy Series by Acquafront Infrastructure?

The Acqua Energy Series is Acquafront’s integrated floating energy solution designed for energy generation, storage, and distribution, using high‑durability floating platforms engineered for Indian water conditions.

3. What types of water bodies are suitable for floating solar installation?

Floating solar systems can be installed on reservoirs, ponds, lakes, canals, dams, and other calm or low‑current inland water bodies.

4. How does floating solar differ from land‑based solar plants?

Floating solar plants do not require land acquisition, reduce water evaporation, and offer higher efficiency due to natural cooling from water surfaces.

5. What floating structure is used for Acquafront’s solar systems?

Acquafront uses RCC/GFRC floating beams filled with EPS, offering high strength, buoyancy, corrosion resistance, and long service life.

6. What is the expected lifespan of Acquafront floating solar platforms?

The floating platforms are designed for a service life of up to 50 years, subject to normal operation and periodic maintenance.

7. What capacity range is available for Energy Floating Solar Panels?

Systems are modular and scalable, starting from 10 kW and expandable to 100 kW, 500 kW, 1 MW, and utility‑scale installations.

8. Can the floating solar system be expanded in the future?

Yes. The modular design allows easy expansion by adding more floating units and solar panels without disturbing existing installations.

9. Do floating solar plants reduce water evaporation?

Yes. Floating solar panels cover a portion of the water surface, significantly reducing evaporation losses, especially in reservoirs and ponds.

10. Is floating solar suitable for drinking water reservoirs?

Yes. When properly designed and installed, floating solar systems are suitable for drinking water reservoirs and help reduce algae growth.

11. How are floating solar systems anchored?

Anchoring systems are designed based on site‑specific parameters such as water depth, wind load, and water level variations, using dead anchors, RCC anchors, or mooring systems.

12. Are floating solar platforms resistant to corrosion?

Yes. RCC/GFRC floating beams are highly resistant to corrosion, UV exposure, and harsh environmental conditions.

13. Does water movement affect the stability of the solar panels?

No. The floating platforms are engineered to maintain stability under wind, wave, and water level fluctuations.

14. What are the key advantages of Acquafront’s floating solar technology?

Key advantages include long lifespan, low maintenance, modular scalability, eco‑friendly materials, and compliance with Indian engineering standards.

15. Can energy storage systems be integrated with floating solar plants?

Yes. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) can be integrated for energy storage, peak load management, and off‑grid applications.

16. Are floating solar systems suitable for off‑grid or remote locations?

Yes. Floating solar plants can be designed for both grid‑connected and off‑grid applications, including remote and rural areas.

17. What sectors can benefit from Energy Floating Solar Panels?

Municipal bodies, irrigation departments, industries, water utilities, mining, smart cities, and renewable energy developers can benefit from floating solar systems.

18. How does floating solar help in sustainable development?

Floating solar promotes clean energy generation, reduces carbon emissions, conserves land and water, and supports India’s renewable energy goals.

19. What maintenance is required for floating solar plants?

Maintenance includes periodic inspection of solar panels, electrical systems, anchoring arrangements, and floating platforms.

20. Are Acquafront floating solar systems compliant with Indian standards?

Yes. Designs are aligned with applicable Indian engineering practices, structural standards, and quality norms.

21. Does Acquafront provide turnkey floating solar solutions?

Yes. Acquafront offers end‑to‑end services including site survey, design, manufacturing, supply, installation, commissioning, and maintenance support.

22. How long does installation of a floating solar plant take?

Installation timelines depend on project size and site conditions but are generally faster than land‑based solar projects due to modular construction.

23. Is floating solar environmentally safe for aquatic life?

Yes. Properly designed floating solar systems have minimal environmental impact and may improve water quality by reducing algae growth.

24. Can floating solar plants be relocated if required?

Yes. Modular floating solar systems can be dismantled and relocated if project requirements change.

25. How does floating solar improve power generation efficiency?

The cooling effect of water reduces solar panel temperature, resulting in higher energy output compared to conventional ground‑mounted systems.

26. Why choose Acquafront Infrastructure for floating solar projects?

Acquafront combines engineering expertise, patented floating technology, durable materials, and turnkey execution, making it a reliable partner for floating solar projects.

We collaborate with solar developers, government agencies, and energy companies to power progress on water.

In conclusion, floating solar isn't just a sustainable option; it's a smart, space-efficient, and scalable solution for a world striving to cut its carbon footprint. With industry players like AIPL, the sun shines brighter — even on water.

For more contact Us

About the Author

Mr. Ankit Patel, Director & CEO.

  • Industrial expertise in Business Development, Operations, Finance & Administration, and Product development.
  • Navkriti Medal issued by Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi.
  • National Meritorious Innovation Award 2018 by NRDC (A DST Enterprise) presented during Innovate India conference 2019 at EDII, Ahmedabad.
  • Recognised for groundbreaking innovation with patent no. 485553 in the Marine Industry
AIPL specializes in modular maritime and floating-infrastructure platforms for energy, water, marine, transport, construction, pumping and tourism sectors, supported by a decade of proven engineering.

Registered Under:

Office

3RD Floor, Tower-C, Office No.  C - 320 I-THUM Plot No.A-40, Sector 62, NOIDA, Distt Gautam Buddha Nagar, UP – 201301

Follow Us

Manufacturing Unit

Acquafront Infrastructure, Rania Industrial Area, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Pin Code: 209101

E-Mail

admin@acquainfra.com
© All rights reserved 2023 | ACQUAFRONT INFRASTRUCTURE PVT. LTD. are registered Trade Marks