Orange County unveils state-of-the-art floating solar panels making clean energy via water reflection
Forecasting our future involves planning ahead for a more sustainable community.
Orange County is doing just that with a state-of-the-art floating solar panel installation, which is expected to be a game-changer for making renewable energy goals.
Conveniently nestled at the Southern Regional Water Supply, this innovative project represents a fusion of cutting-edge technology and environmental sustainability.
The floating hub, which covers nearly four acres, harnesses the rich and abundant sunshine in Florida to generate clean, renewable energy.
"We're very proud about that. It will produce 1.9 million megawatts of energy annually, which will help meet about 25% of the energy needs at this facility, which supplies water to about 80,000 Orange County residents," Carrie Black, Chief Sustainability Officer of Orange County, said.
Each solar panel is specifically designed to withstand the unique challenges posed by its aquatic environment, ensuring optimal performance and durability.
"We definitely had some lessons learned during the process in regard to the connection to the facility, but we are looking to replicate this at more of our facilities across the county as well," Black said.
But the benefits of this floating solar panel hub extend far beyond its technological prowess. These panels work by harnessing solar power from the sun-drenched skies of Florida, but that energy production is then multiplied by the reflectivity of the water.
The combination works in tandem to provide 25% of the power for the Southern Regional Water Supply Plant — all the while reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, lowering its carbon footprint and cutting down on costs.
"Benefits to our rate payers because this will have a return on investment in about 11 years and the lifespan of your average solar panel is about 25 years. So this will help with reducing operational costs for Orange County utilities. Then there are beneficial effects with the cooling of the water which makes it a win-win and we're definitely looking to add more," Black said.
With its blending of environmental responsibility and technological innovation, this new floating solar panel hub in Orange County will serve as a shining example of progress in the pursuit of a greener tomorrow.