Lecture Notes: SunGro Floating Research Department Presentation

Introduction

• Director's Background: 6 years experience in sales and market research of floating solar.
• Company Overview:
  • SunGro: 23 years of experience in PV industry technology.
  • Over 100 patents in floating solar technology (e.g., inverter booster, floating platform).
  • Global floating projects have reached 1 GW capacity by August 2020.

Presentation Overview

• Focus on challenges in the Malaysia market.
• Discussion on declining tariffs and its impact on developers and suppliers.

Company Introduction

• Establishment: SunGro founded in 1997, went public in 2011.
• Employees: Nearly 4,000 employees, 40% in R&D.
• Market Position: Ranked top amongst world's most bankable brands.
• SunGro Floating: Subsidiary focusing on floating systems since 2013.
• Patents & Innovations: Over 100 patents, advanced raw material laboratory.

Floating Systems Overview

• Applications: Used in reservoirs, rivers, fish ponds, extreme conditions (cold, offshore, typhoon).
• Global Projects:
  • Examples include projects in Thailand (90 MW), Malaysia (100 MW), Vietnam (120 MW).
  • 13 MW project in Malaysia connected to the grid, achieving 89% PR.

Advantages of Floating Systems

• Reduced Land Need: Important for densely populated areas.
• Higher Energy Yield: Improved water quality and reduced evaporation.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Lower lease costs for water than land.

Technological Development

• System Compatibility: Compatible with mainstream market modules.
• System Cost Reduction: Via BOS cost drop and efficient module use.

Design Solutions

• Layout Design:
  • Single, double, and triple row designs.
  • Designed for local conditions to optimize operations and maintenance.
• Floating Platform:
  • Special design for large equipment, reduces cable consumption and cost.
  • Improved power generation through reduced power loss.

Anchorage System

• Design Process:
  • Four steps: Input data, analysis, simulation, construction support.
  • Factors include wind, wave, flow.
• Simulation and Testing:
  • Reliable simulation results compared to real projects.
  • Testing from various wind angles.
  • Comprehensive load calculation combining wind, wave, and flow.

Conclusion

• Cost Reduction Strategies:
  • Module selection, layout design, floating platform use, optimized anchoring.
  • Objective: Ensure long-term operation and collaboration in Malaysia.
• Future Integration: Wind power, solar pumping, and storage systems.