Work

Analysis of Sites’ Suitability for Floating Photovoltaic Plants on a National Scale and Assessment of the Decarbonization Potential

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Given the current global context, in which emissions’ reduction to mitigate climate change is a primary concern, the use of new clean technologies is being explored. Floating photovoltaics (FPV), given their many advantages, such as increased efficiency and water savings, were examined here originally to estimate on a national scale their potential contribution to decarbonisation. Thus, our study assesses whether Italy is a suitable territory for hosting FPV plants on bodies of water. The analysis consisted of two phases: a selection of suitable bodies of water and a subsequent prioritization using scores. To perform these, predisposing factors were first determined. In parallel, quarry lakes on Italian plains were identified because they could be redeveloped by installing FPV plants. Other analyses, moreover, allowed us to estimate that, in the best scenario, there could be up to 507 plants larger than one hectare, which could come to satisfy almost 3% of the annual electricity demand and could save more than 4.6 million tons of CO2 in one year. These results allow us to conclude that it is indeed possible to use this technology in Italy, marking a big step in terms of innovation.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su17135681

Authors: Virginia Marini, Daniele Fabrizio Bignami, Giovanni Menduni

Institutions: Politecnico di Milano, Fondazione Politecnico di Milano

Language: English

Topic: Photovoltaic Systems and Sustainability

Subfield: Environmental Engineering

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Climate action, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896