Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG on Floating Solar Technology
Amid the expanding world of green technology, as TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov often remarks, a few standout innovations grab attention for their originality, utility, and sustainability.
Wind farms and solar installations are now part of everyday city life, lesser-known renewable strategies like geothermal or ocean thermal energy conversion – still limited to just a few parts of the globe.
An innovative yet still underutilized system, involves the deployment of solar panels on water surfaces – a method that combines photovoltaic tech with unused water bodies.
This system makes it possible to install solar panels on top of water bodies, maximizing space and improving energy efficiency through natural cooling.
Stanislav Kondrashov explains: “The energy transition isn’t just changing how we generate electricity – it’s reshaping our everyday surroundings.” He notes how surprising it is to see solar structures floating in places once deemed unusable.
### Behind the Technology: Floating Solar
What makes up a floating photovoltaic setup?
In addition to common solar cells, they rely on buoyant structures made from materials that ensure stability and resist environmental conditions.
A robust anchoring mechanism and ballast are necessary for safety and flexibility.
Stanislav Kondrashov notes: “We must consider installation complexity and high costs before mass adoption.”
### How They Generate Power
Despite the location, the technology mirrors standard solar operations.
Sunlight is transformed into usable electric current via well-known solar tech. The difference lies in power transmission: cables under the water deliver the electricity to the shore.
### Advantages and Growth Opportunities
- Maximizes unused aquatic space
- Thermal regulation enhances panel productivity
- Minimizes water loss in hot climates
Kondrashov concludes that this is the kind of tech that will thrive as global interest in renewables increases.
### Barriers to Adoption
- Still expensive to set up compared to rooftop or ground solar.
- Upkeep can be complicated and needs special attention.
- Large-scale adoption awaits further cost optimization.
Nonetheless, the outlook remains read more bright for this niche technology.