Design Optimization and Wave-Induced Response Analysis of Floating Offshore Solar PV Platforms

Floating offshore solar photovoltaic (PV) systems represent a promising solution to expand renewable energy generation by leveraging the vast marine environment and reducing dependence on limited land resources. When co-located with offshore wind farms, they form a complementary hybrid energy system, where solar production peaks during calm daytime conditions and wind power dominates at night or during cloudy days when solar is less productive, which improves supply continuity [1]. Unlike land-based installations, floating PV platforms must withstand complex hydrodynamic forces, wave–structure interactions, and mooring system constraints, which directly influence their stability, durability, and power performance [2]. This study presents a conceptual and structural design approach for floating offshore PV systems, with particular focus on optimizing the buoy and platform geometry to reduce hydrodynamic drag and, consequently, minimize mooring loads. The design framework integrates buoyancy distribution, material selection, and platform configuration to ensure hydrostatic stability while reducing resistance to wave and current forces. By optimizing the floaters and overall layout to lower drag, the mooring system can be designed with reduced stiffness, improving both performance and cost-effectiveness. The proposed methodology enhances survivability in harsh offshore conditions while maintaining economic and installation practicality. The approach is demonstrated for floating PV concepts intended for integration within existing offshore wind infrastructure. References [1] E. Solomin, E. Sirotkin, E. Cuce, S. P. Selvanathan, and S. Kumarasamy. Hybrid floating solar plant designs: A review. Energies, vol. 14, no. 10, p. 2751, 2021. [2] R. Claus and M. López. Key issues in the design of floating photovoltaic structures for the marine environment. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 164, p. 112502, 2022.