The ‘Diner Capital of the World’ has something unique in common with China, proving that the Chinese are not alone in floating photovoltaics. America’s most densely populated state will soon be powered by 16,000 panels above a reservoir, producing a capacity of approximately 9 MW. The state’s pioneering project will positively contribute to its climate and clean energy goals, as well as those of the entire country. Discover more about this pioneering floating solar project below.
China is not alone in floating photovoltaics
China has proven its dedication to renewable energies and its climate goals time and again, securing its position as a global leader in more than a few categories. One area where China is shining brightly is its total floating photovoltaic (FPV) projects. According to PV Magazine International, China has substantial potential to expand its installed FPV capacity, with some experts predicting more than 860 MW in potential capacity.
However, the Chinese are not the only ones who realized the great advantages offered by FPVs, which include but are not limited to:
- Higher efficiency
- The water keeps the solar panels cool
- Land conservation
- Utilising unused water spaces instead of valuable land
- Higher water quality
- Shaded water has fewer harmful algal blooms
- Water conservation
- Solar panels decrease water evaporation
All these benefits led to the venture between two major companies from the Diner Capital of the World, resulting in over 16,000 panels above a reservoir in the U.S.
The partners behind the pioneering floating solar project
While the state of New York is playing catch-up with its $1 billion floating power project, the state of New Jersey has already shown what is possible when people, or in this case, two major companies, come together. New Jersey Resources (NJR) and New Jersey American Water partnered for the state’s game-changing Canoe Brook project.
Solar Renewable Energy (SRE) assisted with the development of the project, and RETTEW was responsible for the project’s procurement, construction, and engineering services. According to SRE’s CEO and president, Douglas Berry:
“NJR Clean Energy Ventures and New Jersey American Water have been fantastic partners for developing this challenging project. Through innovative deal structuring, the Canoe Brook team has crafted a project that maximizes the economic benefits of renewable energy, while focusing on New Jersey American Water’s core mission for safe and reliable water service.”
16,000 panels above this reservoir in the U.S.
The Canoe Brook project is located in Millburn, New Jersey, and 16,510 floating solar panels were installed at the New Jersey American Water Canoe Brook Water Treatment Plant’s reservoir. According to NJR’s website, the project’s produced clean power will be utilised to supplement nearly 95% of the facility’s annual power demands, thanks to a purchase agreement with CEV.
The project’s total capacity output is 8.9 MW. New Jersey American Water’s president, Mark McDonough, added:
“As the state’s largest water and wastewater utility company, it is essential for us to be good stewards of the environment by operating efficiently and in a manner that helps protect our natural resources. This initiative provides a meaningful reduction of traditional energy use that benefits the environment, as well as our customers through limited capital expense and reduced power costs.”
The Canoe Brook project started full operations in the fall of 2022 and became the second successful floating solar venture by CEV. Its very first project was the 4.4 MW floating photovoltaic project in Sayreville, New Jersey, which became operational in 2020. It goes to show that New Jersey is serious when it comes to meeting its climate and clean energy goals, with continued focus on renewable energy projects. Beyond America, Spain has also added more than 5 GW with its new solar projects.
