The Queen Elizabeth II reservoir in London is set to become home to the European continent's largest floating solar array. This particular array will offer a peak capacity of 6.3 Megawatts. In the first year itself, it will likely put out close to 6 million kilowatt-hours, which is sufficient to power up around 1,800 homes.
The array is being built specifically to contribute to the power needs of the Thames Water water company, part of the firm's objective to generate a third of its energy needs by the year 2020.
While there's no doubt that this solar array requires monumental efforts of labor and resources, the payoff is well worth it as it will continue to lead one of the world's major mega-cities toward a more sustainable and comfortable future.
Floating Solar Arrays
This Solar Array Will Be Situated On the Queen Elizabeth II Reservoir
Trend Themes
1. Floating Solar Arrays - As the largest floating solar array in Europe, this project presents an opportunity for companies to experiment with new techniques in installation and engineering.
2. Renewable Energy for Corporations - The Thames Water water company's goal of generating one-third of its energy needs by 2020 presents an opportunity for other corporations to set similar targets and invest in solar and other renewable energy sources.
3. Power Generation and Distribution - With the potential to power around 1,800 homes, this project illustrates the opportunity for companies to invest in cleaner energy options and improve power distribution systems.
Industry Implications
1. Solar Energy - The floating solar array project offers an opportunity for companies in the solar industry to experiment with new techniques and technologies for large-scale installations.
2. Utilities - The Thames Water water company's goal of generating one-third of its energy needs through renewable sources presents an opportunity for other utilities companies to follow suit and invest in renewable energy sources.
3. Engineering - Building Europe's largest floating solar array requires significant expertise and resources in engineering, presenting an opportunity for companies with skills in this area to offer their expertise to similar projects.