Offshore solar farms could better withstand waves if their floating supports are matched to local sea conditions, according to a study in the Journal of Energy Infrastructure . Simulations show that flat-bottomed barge floats offer stronger protection in shorter waves, while twin-hull catamaran floats can reduce loads on anchoring lines in longer waves. A mixed layout did not consistently outperform either design.

Simulated waves around a three-by-three floating solar array with barge floats (left) and catamaran floats (right). Colours show variations in water-surface elevation. (Image credit: Binjian Ou, Jae Hoon Seo, Qing Qin and Luofeng Huang)

“Floating solar can expand renewable energy capacity without occupying land,” said the study’s corresponding author Luofeng Huang.…