Floating photovoltaic is a widespread technology in calm waters. However, one of the main challenges for the future is the installation in sea waters. Therefore, research is being focused on mechanical aspects such as the design of platforms and mooring systems as well as the operation of this infrastructure in a wet and highly corrosive environment that usually generates insulation failures.

Another difficulty faced by the floating systems is the risk of biofouling, that is, the development of organisms like algae and barnacles on the surfaces of the solar panels and support structures.

This technology makes it possible to take advantage of water surfaces to meet the growing demand for solar energy. In reality, it is an alternative method that has emerged with the aim of extending solar energy to all areas where the land does not have the optimal characteristics for the installation of photovoltaic systems. As the seawater is reflecting, floating systems have the benefit of being able to generate more electricity than solar systems on land. The cooling impact of seawater can also help lower the temperature of the solar panels, extending their lifespan and increasing their effectiveness.

These systems are presented as an ally for the decarbonisation of ports, where power supply usually depends on the grid operator. Moreover, with the introduction of cool ironing, the energy demand in ports is expected to increase considerably in the coming years.

In floating photovoltaics, the solar panels are placed on a floating platform, which can be of the following types:

• Pure: in these systems, the photovoltaic panels are located above the flotation system.

• Metallic: they have a steel structure supported by a floating system on which the photovoltaic panels are supported.

• Membrane: in these systems, the modules rest directly on the membrane in contact with the water.

• Other systems: there are also systems with alternative materials, usually composed of iron and concrete, which are currently less widely used.

Another important element of the installation is the mooring system, which anchors the structure to maintain stability and ensure that the system adapts to fluctuations in water level. There are three common types of anchorages:

• Anchoring at the bottom.

• Shore anchoring.

• Piles.

Marine floating photovoltaics is still in the development phase, therefore it is crucial to have infrastructures in place, such as RENMARINAS Arinaga and RENMARINAS Las Palmas, that allow the testing of different solutions.