RWE launches North Sea offshore solar pilot

ESSEN, July 5, 2024 – RWE and Dutch-Norwegian floating PV company Solar Duck have successfully installed their first offshore floating solar (OFPV) pilot module in the Dutch North Sea, the companies announced on Thursday.

Named Merganser, the pilot project aims to test structural, mooring and electrical designs and acquire knowledge about manufacturing, assembly, offshore installation and maintenance methodologies required for large-scale commercial deployment.

Moored in waters approximately 20 metres deep around 12 kilometres off the coast of The Hague, Merganser has a capacity of 0.5 MW and can withstand rough offshore conditions. The scalable concept is designed to float several metres above the water and follow waves like a carpet, keeping critical components dry and securing the structural integrity of the semi-submersible floating structure.

“Alone or in combination with offshore wind farms, OFPV could open up further offshore renewable energy opportunities – especially for countries with lower average wind speeds but lots of sunlight. With Merganser, we are gaining unique insights and first-hand experience in one of the most challenging offshore environments in the world,” said Sven Utermöhlen, CEO of RWE Offshore Wind.

Over the next two years, the pilot will be monitored using more than 180 sensors that will measure structural loads, connector and mooring loads and electrical performance, among other performance criteria.

Photo courtesy Solar Duck

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