Why Floating Solar is Making Waves in Florida’s Energy Market
We’ve stated the obvious about the Sunshine State before, but Florida remains an ideal location for solar energy. With dry land at a premium, floating solar arrays are popping up in the state and offering an innovative option that is helping to expand solar adoption. These systems, also known as “floatovoltaics,” allow solar panels to be installed on bodies of water like retention ponds and reservoirs—maximizing clean energy production without taking up valuable land. Central Florida is home to over 2,500 natural bodies of water in just four counties: Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Polk while Orange County alone contains more than 6,000 stormwater retention ponds. But why should someone choose to install floating solar on their property? There are several benefits.
Why Choose Floating Solar?
Optimized Land Use – Instead of using farmland or commercial space, floating solar makes use of underutilized water surfaces, allowing businesses and municipalities to generate renewable energy without sacrificing real estate.
Increased Efficiency – Water helps cool the solar panels, improving their performance and longevity compared to land-based systems.
Reduced Water Evaporation – By covering sections of a pond or reservoir, floating solar arrays help reduce water loss from evaporation, a valuable benefit in Florida’s hot climate.
Eco-Friendly Impact – These systems can reduce algae growth by limiting sunlight penetration, improving water quality while producing clean energy.
Lower Maintenance Costs – With fewer issues related to dust and dirt accumulation, floating solar panels often require less cleaning and maintenance.
Lower Utility Costs - The traditional benefits of a rooftop or ground mount system still apply. Owners see reduced utility costs and an attractive ROI.
Optimus Energy Solutions now offers a leased floating solar program, making this cutting-edge technology accessible to businesses, utilities, and property owners. To learn more about how floating solar can benefit your property, visit click below.