Researchers at the Norwegian science institute SINTEF are pushing the boundaries of solar energy with their ongoing project to construct a pilot floating solar power plant. Utilizing a groundbreaking technology that captures concentrated sunlight, the plant aims to revolutionize the way we harness solar energy.Martin Bellmann, a Research Scientist at SINTEF, explains that the concept builds upon standard solar radiation technology but incorporates mirrors to concentrate sunlight onto ultra-efficient solar panels. The unique design allows the plant to rotate in the water, enabling the panels to track the sun and maximize sunlight absorption.One of the notable advantages of this floating solar power plant is its ability to capture and utilize the excess heat generated by the concentrated sunlight. Instead of losing the heat to the surrounding water, the plant employs a heat transfer fluid flowing through pipes connected to the solar panels, effectively retaining both the heat and electricity produced.To further enhance the heat generated by the solar energy plant, SINTEF is developing a heat pump that will be connected to the system. This integrated approach aims to demonstrate a solar-assisted carbon capture system, providing the thermal energy required for gas separation.In collaboration with the Norwegian company Svalin Solar, SINTEF plans to develop and upscale the floating solar power plant. Components are being procured, and construction of a pilot facility is scheduled for the upcoming summer. Initially, the plant will be tested on dry land as part of an existing carbon capture facility operated by SINTEF.The TRINEFLEX project, which encompasses the development of the floating solar power plant, aims to support the transition of European heavy industries toward greater sustainability. By integrating renewable energy and digitalization, the project aims to meet the substantial energy requirements of heavy industries, ultimately contributing to their sustainability goals.With 28 partners involved and a budget of EUR 19.3 million, the TRINEFLEX project represents a major collaborative effort to advance renewable energy integration and drive innovation in the industrial sector.
Researchers at the Norwegian science institute SINTEF are pushing the boundaries of solar energy with their ongoing project to construct a pilot floating solar power plant. Utilizing a groundbreaking technology that captures concentrated sunlight, the plant aims to revolutionize the way we harness solar energy.Martin Bellmann, a Research Scientist at SINTEF, explains that the concept builds upon standard solar radiation technology but incorporates mirrors to concentrate sunlight onto ultra-efficient solar panels. The unique design allows the plant to rotate in the water, enabling the panels to track the sun and maximize sunlight absorption.One of the notable advantages of this floating solar power plant is its ability to capture and utilize the excess heat generated by the concentrated sunlight. Instead of losing the heat to the surrounding water, the plant employs a heat transfer fluid flowing through pipes connected to the solar panels, effectively retaining both the heat and electricity produced.To further enhance the heat generated by the solar energy plant, SINTEF is developing a heat pump that will be connected to the system. This integrated approach aims to demonstrate a solar-assisted carbon capture system, providing the thermal energy required for gas separation.In collaboration with the Norwegian company Svalin Solar, SINTEF plans to develop and upscale the floating solar power plant. Components are being procured, and construction of a pilot facility is scheduled for the upcoming summer. Initially, the plant will be tested on dry land as part of an existing carbon capture facility operated by SINTEF.The TRINEFLEX project, which encompasses the development of the floating solar power plant, aims to support the transition of European heavy industries toward greater sustainability. By integrating renewable energy and digitalization, the project aims to meet the substantial energy requirements of heavy industries, ultimately contributing to their sustainability goals.With 28 partners involved and a budget of EUR 19.3 million, the TRINEFLEX project represents a major collaborative effort to advance renewable energy integration and drive innovation in the industrial sector.
