China has achieved a milestone in renewable energy with the launch of its first wave-resistant floating photovoltaic (PV) platforms off the west coast of Qingdao.
The Huaneng Yellow Sea No 1 is China's first wave-resistant floating solar platform, now set on the ocean. [Photo/CFP]
Named the Huaneng Yellow Sea No 1, this pioneering offshore wind platform is destined for installation at the Huaneng Wind Farm in the Yellow Sea. Built to withstand marine conditions 30 kilometers from shore in waters 30 meters deep, it is slated for extensive testing.
Each PV platform measures over 25 meters on each side, roughly equivalent to four standard basketball courts, and stands 9 meters tall. [Photo/WeChat account: xihaianwenlv]
It is engineered to evaluate the wind and wave resistance, durability, maintainability, component performance, and weather resilience of floating offshore PV platforms.
Built to withstand once-in-50-years sea conditions, including waves up to 10 meters high, "Yellow Sea No 1" marks a significant advancement in China's floating offshore PV technology, the platform is designed to ensure that even under extreme sea conditions, waves will not affect its solar panels.