AqvaFloat UK, a UK startup, has just commissioned a new factory to begin production of its floating solar system to supply floating solar projects across Europe.

“The AqvaFloat system is unique. It is based on a tried and tested floating docking system that’s been in production for over 40 years,” says Alex Fornal, head of sales. “Adapted for solar farms, it is cost-effective and highly robust, certified to withstand 135 mph winds and DWI-water quality approved. We offer a 20-year product warranty.”

“We’re highly confident in floating solar’s potential across all markets,” says Simon Piggott, company founder and MD. “We are looking at expansion into the United Statse to supply projects in the Americas and also into Asia.”

The AqvaFloat factory in Cumbria, United Kingdom is now fully commissioned and ready to produce 12 MW initially, with plans to expand with the market. A number of floating solar projects already exist in the UK and some learning points have been applied to the new system.

Tethering floating solar systems in reservoirs has been a big challenge in the past. AqvaFloat applies a unique continuous-torsion tethering system called Aqvaflex that flexibly tethers the solar array while allowing for large variations in surface water levels in reservoirs.

“As with all emerging niche markets floating solar boils down to cost,” Fornal says. “We are fast approaching parity with on-land systems in some markets and that will be a game-changer. Our system can accommodate any size solar panel. The capacity-to-plastic ratio determines cost in floating projects. That’s what makes our system competitive. We also have plans to maximize use of recycled plastic to bring costs down further, with the added bonus of alleviating a massive plastic pollution problem that is a growing concern.”

Aqvafloat is headquartered in the Bahamas, with strategic manufacturing facilities being setup regionally to support global market demand.

News item from Aqvafloat