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The swift advancement of green energy technologies is crucial for combating global climate change and ensuring energy security. Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FSPV) or Floatovoltaics, is an innovative approach that integrates technology with water bodies to generate green energy. Floating Solar Photovoltaic systems are becoming a groundbreaking solution to tackle India's dual issue of expanding renewable energy capacity while efficiently utilizing land in a country with high population density.
This thesis examines viability of implementing a 125 MW FSPV project at Idukki Reservoir, Kerala, India by thoroughly assessing the project's technical, economic, environmental, and social aspects. By utilizing both simulation software and actual data, the study analyses energy generation capabilities, system efficiency, financial indicators, and environmental effects, including reduced emissions and water preservation. The analysis reveals that the Idukki Reservoir, given its favorable climatic conditions, characteristics of the water body, and current infrastructure, represents an excellent location for large-scale floating solar energy production. With the help of various financial metrics, the project showcased strong financial feasibility. Environmental advantages, such as decreased water evaporation and substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, additionally bolster the project's value. Furthermore, the research emphasizes possible socio-economic advantages, such as job generation and enhanced energy access. The policy analysis underscores the need for modernization in Kerala’s solar energy policies to foster further development of floating solar technologies. It concludes that, if effectively managed, the Idukki FSPV project could serve as a model for floating solar deployment in India, contributing to India’s RE goals.
Keywords: Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FSPV), FSPV Environmental Impact, FSPV O&M, FSPV Social Impact, Green Energy, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Idukki Reservoir, Internal Rate of Return, Levelized Cost of Electricity, Policy Analysis, Techno-Economic Analysis, and Water Conservation.
