Floating solar is changing the way people think about renewable energy. Instead of covering valuable farmland or rooftops, solar panels can be placed on the surface of ponds, lakes, reservoirs, or even large aquaculture tanks. This approach uses otherwise unused water surfaces to produce clean electricity. For fish farm operators such as salmon farmers, the tops of tanks or pens can become productive power generators for solar projects while still continuing to support aquaculture below.
What is Floating Solar (Floatovoltaics)?
Floating solar, also called floatovoltaics, is a solar power system in which photovoltaic panels are mounted on floating platforms on bodies of water. These systems are secured with anchors or mooring lines to keep them stable in varying water conditions. The technology is being used worldwide to increase renewable energy capacity without taking up land that could be used for farming, housing, or conservation.
By installing panels on water, developers can tap into new energy production areas. Many reservoirs, quarry lakes, or irrigation ponds have open water that is perfect for this type of system. The design reduces the need for clearing land and can help preserve open space.
According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), 24,000 man-made reservoirs in the US could generate approximately 10% of the nation’s annual electricity production if outfitted with floatovoltaics.
How Do Floatovoltaics Work?
The main difference between floating solar and traditional solar farms is the mounting method. Panels are fixed on buoyant structures, often made from high-density polyethylene or other durable materials. These floats are connected to one another, forming a stable platform that holds the solar panels in position.
Electricity is generated in the same way as land-based solar. Sunlight hits the panels, creating direct current (DC) electricity. Inverters convert DC to alternating current (AC) for use on the grid or on-site. Cabling runs from the floating platform to shore, where it connects to electrical infrastructure. Anchoring systems keep the array from drifting, even with wind or changing water levels.
Common Uses for Floating Solar
Community solar projects pair well with floating solar technology. Arrays can be placed on reservoirs, quarry lakes, or farm ponds and connected to the local grid, allowing nearby residents and businesses to subscribe to clean power without installing their own panels. It delivers renewable energy to multiple households while keeping land available for farming, conservation, or development.
Municipal utilities and water districts are beginning to adopt floating systems for community solar programs, using public reservoirs to generate electricity for local subscribers. Agricultural landowners are also hosting community solar on irrigation ponds, producing power for surrounding communities while earning consistent lease income.
Aquaculture operations, including salmon farms, can participate in community solar as well. Solar panels installed above tanks or sea pens can supply electricity to the grid while also powering on-site equipment. The added shade can help maintain water quality, reduce algae growth, and keep fish habitats cooler in warmer weather.
5 Key Benefits of Solar Panels on Water
Better Land Use
Floating solar on water allows valuable land to remain in farming, forestry, or conservation. Landowners can produce renewable energy without sacrificing productive ground or natural habitats. The approach also opens possibilities in areas where land is scarce or restricted, enabling energy expansion in locations that might otherwise be impossible.
Cooler Operating Temperatures
Solar panels perform better when cooler. Water beneath the arrays lowers the surrounding temperature, preventing overheating and maintaining stronger energy output. Even modest improvements in efficiency add up over the lifetime of the system, especially in hot climates where demand for electricity is highest.
Reduced Water Evaporation
Panels floating above a pond or reservoir create shade that slows evaporation. For farmers and aquaculture operators, maintaining water levels means more reliable operations and fewer costs for replenishing lost water. In arid or drought-prone regions, this benefit can be especially valuable for long-term sustainability.
Improved Water Quality
Shading from the panels limits the sunlight that drives algae growth. Lower algae levels help maintain better oxygen balance and reduce the need for chemical treatments or aeration. For fish farmers, cleaner water can lead to healthier stock and reduced operational expenses.
Reduced Carbon Emissions
Floating solar on water generates clean electricity that replaces power from fossil fuel sources. Every kilowatt-hour produced by the system reduces the amount of coal, oil, or natural gas burned for energy. Over time, the impact can be significant, cutting greenhouse gas emissions and improving local air quality.
Floating Solar Opportunities with US Light Energy
U.S. Light Energy (USLE) specializes in developing community solar projects, helping landowners turn unused space into a reliable income stream. Landowners with ponds, reservoirs, or aquaculture operations have the potential to host floatovoltaic systems, producing clean power while earning steady lease payments.
Leasing property to USLE allows landowners to secure long-term income without managing the solar farm themselves. We handle all the research to determine if your site qualifies for solar development. Whether your site includes open land, large fish tanks, or water storage ponds, there is potential to benefit from renewable energy development. Apply today to see if your site qualifies! U.S. Light Energy is leading the charge for a new generation.
Reservations:
https://uslightenergy.com/land-leasing/solar-land-lease/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0038092X24008727#s0110
https://uslightenergy.com/what-is-a-solar-farm-and-how-does-it-work/
https://uslightenergy.com/what-is-community-solar-how-does-it-work/
https://usasolarcell.com/news/2025/01/27/floating-solar-could-transform-energy-in-the-us/