Floating Solar—What’s the Potential in South East Asia? Lessons Learned from the United States

To ensure reliable, affordable, and sustainable future power supplies many countries in Southeast Asia are exploring options for new generation. Floating solar photovoltaics (FPV) are becoming an increasingly competitive option. However, the technology is still nascent, and many potential adopters have questions about its benefits, how to analyze it appropriately, and the underlying technology. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory developed the first national assessment of floating solar technical potential on artificial water bodies in the United States, estimating that 10% of the nation’s annual electricity production could be met with floating solar. This presentation showcased assessment results and highlighted how this adaptable methodology could support similar assessments of floating solar potential in South East Asia and worldwide.