Saipem’s floating solar platform begins trials; can withstand 26-feet waves

After years of testing, Saipem has finally launched a full-scale prototype of its cutting-edge modularized floating solar technology designed for offshore energy sector.

A milestone for offshore energy initiatives, the freestanding XolarSurf will be put to the ultimate test: the open sea.

T he XolarSurf solution solar panels are custom-made to generate electricity for ocean use. Not only can they withstand waves of up to 26 feet (eight meters), but the modular design also means that its quite flexible , which facilitates relocation, transport, and reuse.

Islands of multiple smaller floaters create a secure area for photovoltaic (PV) panels to generate up to 35 to 45 kWp of installed power.

“XolarSurf represents a new frontier in the floating solar segment, capable of being installed in any coastal or offshore location, even under harsh environmental conditions. It offers an optimal solution for hybrid projects, such as offshore wind farms, both fixed and floating,” Saipem told Offshore Energy.

Designed to supply energy to hard-to-reach locations

Developed by Moss Maritime, XolarSurf aims to provide the aquaculture industry with much-needed energy supply and the ability to generate energy far from shore. After a robust industrialization process to reduce manufacturing costs, XolarSurf can be mass-produced – making solar technologies as easy to use as possible is a general goal that ensures their adoption.

“The prototype is a result of several years of development, engineering, model and component testing in laboratories as well as full-scale testing of critical marine operations relevant to the installation of an offshore floating solar park, with a joint effort by Saipem, Moss Maritime, and Equinor that have combined their commitment and expertise,” Sapiem said.

According to Sapiem, it can be adapted to operate in any offshore location and even under harsh weather conditions. Remote areas with limited land access can finally be served, which concerns industries that breed, rear, and harvest fish.

Their power needs range between 4 and 715 megawatt-hours per year depending on the scale of their operation; this industry, in particular, seeks better energy sources.

“This technology is particularly suited for locations with limited access to land, remote areas, and stand-alone grids and can provide electricity to the growing aquaculture industry, both near shore and for newly planned offshore installations. The modular design of XolarSurf allows it to be easily relocated to new sites or expanded in its existing location .”

The demand for floating solar technology is on the rise

This renewable energy technology eliminates the need for land and generally requires less maintenance, which speaks to why the demand for this type of solution is on the rise. Floating solar may even contribute to the energy transition, that is, an eco-friendly and cost-efficient future.

Developed by Saipem’s Norwegian subsidiary Moss Maritime, the Norwegian manufacturer Kystteknikk, and other subcontractors, this floating solar energy platform is officially now at sea.

To install the device, a series of anchors and mooring lines attach to the waterbed or shore. Floats or solar panels are then assembled on boats and pulled to the mooring lines to secure them in place.

Experts will monitor its performance over the next year as it is the first working prototype, and a milestone for offshore energy, Offshore Energy concludes .