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New satellite images released by NASA showcase a massive floating solar farm in India, spanning over 35 square miles and generating enough energy to supply around 140,000 average homes. The project, comprising two separate installations, has a total capacity of 216 megawatts and is located on a reservoir. Environmentalists hail the project as a greener alternative to traditional land-based solar farms, as it helps conserve both land and water while producing the same amount of power.
The floating solar farm reduces land use requirements by more than 50% and can even mitigate water evaporation by up to 70% due to the shade provided by the solar panels. However, some scientists have expressed concerns about the potential impact on aquatic ecosystems, surface water access, and water temperatures, which could harm local wildlife. Additionally, floating solar installations may be more expensive to develop, with a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory estimating that they cost about 25% more than conventional ground-mounted installations.
Despite these challenges, researchers estimate that building floating solar farms worldwide could generate enough power to meet the United Kingdom’s annual energy demands four times over. While the benefits of floating solar farms are significant, further research and development are needed to overcome the hurdles preventing their widespread adoption. The Indian project serves as a notable example of the potential for innovation in renewable energy, and it highlights the need for careful consideration of the environmental and economic implications of such projects.