SolarDuck has successfully carried out its third round of tests at the Maritime Research Institute of the Netherlands (MARIN), this time with a set of 54 linked marine solar platforms, in a scaled-down version representing an actual capacity of close to 6 MWp. This stage marks a crucial step forward in the technical validation of the HEX-3 model, an evolution of the initial triangular design developed by the Dutch-Norwegian firm.
From a single unit to a system of marine solar platforms
The tour began two years ago with a single floating platform triangular-shaped floating platform. Later, with the HEX-1 version, it was scaled up to six interconnected units. Now, the HEX-3 model has demonstrated how a larger network can maintain stability in simulated wind, current and wave conditions. The model was scaled at a 1:20 ratio and fabricated with carbon tubing and lightweight connectors to closely replicate the mechanical behavior of the real system.
During the tests, a particularly relevant phenomenon was observed: the wind acted as a stabilizing element. This damping effect had already been recorded in earlier tests with individual platforms, but was now more clearly evident on a system scale. As the air flow traveled through the floating array, the oscillations were visibly reduced, confirming previous simulations by SolarDuck’s technical team.
Analysis of future strengths and opportunities
The campaigns carried out in the MARIN sea basin allowed an in-depth study of mooring loads, the interaction between connected structures and the effects of protection against the marine environment. Deterioration tests were also carried out on individual platforms, with the aim of exploring decentralized applications in remote locations, where a single unit could be key to guaranteeing autonomous energy supply.
Thanks to the state-of-the-art motion tracking system available at MARIN, SolarDuck was able to collect high-precision data to further refine its designs. This synergy between applied research and technological development paves the way toward floating solar installations feasible in real-world offshore conditions.
SolarDuck continues its journey as a pioneer in offshore floating solar solutions, backed by the naval know-how of Damen Shipyards, its parent company.
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Source and photo: SolarDuck
