Floating Solar Photovoltaics: Potential and Opportunities in the Southeastern U.S.

Abstract

Floating photovoltaics (FPV) offer an opportunity to expand solar energy capacity on the grid without occupying land as traditional solar systems. This study explored four different buildout prioritization strategies for FPV in the Southeastern US: one that focused on large buildout for maximum electricity generation and associated greenhouse gas emissions reduction, another that minimized biodiversity impacts on water bodies, a third that preserved recreational benefits on water bodies, and a fourth precautionary strategy that considered both biodiversity and recreation. The geospatial analysis offers maps with suitable water bodies under each development strategy along with the expected power capacity, electricity generation, land and emissions spared, and a quantification of risk from extreme weather. The estimated environmental benefits suggest FPV should be studied as an alternative to harmonize clean energy growth with ecological protection.