High-resolution electricity generation model demonstrates suitability of high-altitude floating solar power.

ABSTRACT: This paper develops a meteorological site selection algorithm to quantify the electricity generation potential of floating solar design configurations on alpine water bodies in Switzerland. Using European power market demand patterns, we estimate the technical and economic potential of 82 prospective high-altitude floating solar sites co-located with existing Swiss hydropower. We demonstrate that the amount of solar energy radiating from high-altitude Swiss water bodies could meet total national electricity demand while significantly reducing carbon emissions and addressing seasonal supply/demand deficits. We construct a global map overlaying sites on each continent where high-altitude floating solar could provide low-carbon, land-sparing electricity. Our results present a compelling motiv

SUBMITTER: Eyring N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9157236 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature