Work

Illuminating the Impact of a Floating Photovoltaic System on a Shallow Drinking Water Reservoir: The Emergence of Benthic Cyanobacteria

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems can play an important role in energy transition. Yet, so far, not much is known about the effects of FPV systems on water quality and ecology. A sun-tracking FPV system (24% coverage) was installed on a shallow drinking water reservoir. We observed for the first time that benthic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae), which can deteriorate water quality, developed massively under the FPV system, while macrophytes and benthic algae, such as Chara (stonewort), mostly disappeared. Calculations of light availability explain this shift. The natural mixing of the water column was hardly affected, and the average temperature of the reservoir was not altered significantly. Biofouling of the water-submerged part of the FPV system consisted mostly of a massive attachment of Dreissena mussels, which affected water quality. Water bird numbers and concentrations of faecal bacteria were similar after the installation of the FPV system. Especially in shallow, transparent water bodies, there is a significant risk of FPV systems promoting the growth of undesirable benthic cyanobacteria. Overall, these new insights can aid water managers and governmental institutions in assessing the risks of FPV systems on water quality and the ecology of inland waters.

Source: Water

DOI: 10.3390/w17081178

Authors: Giovanni Sandrini, Arco Wagenvoort, Roland van Asperen, Bas Hofs, Dirk Mathijssen, Albert van der Wal

Institutions: Evides (Netherlands), Wageningen University & Research

Language: English

Topic: Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics

Subfield: Environmental Chemistry

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Life below water, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137