One of Taiwan’s largest and most technically challenging near-shore floating solar projects complete

The construction of Changbin, one of the largest and most technically challenging near-shore floating solar power plant projects in Taiwan has reportedly been completed. This was announced by Ciel & Terre and HEXA Renewables.

Ciel & Terre is a pioneer and world leader in floating solar development with over 120 projects equipped with its patented Hydrelio® system. HEXA Renewables on the other hand is an independent renewable energy project developer and asset manager with a primary focus on Solar PV, Onshore Wind Power and Energy Storage Systems in selected Asian countries.

The two companies were responsible for the implementation of Changbin #3 and #4 floating solar projects that added a capacity of 192.3 MWp to the Changbin floating solar power plant located in Changhua County. This project, thus brings the total installed capacity of Changbin floating solar power plant to 440 MWp, making the facility one of the largest in the country.

Of the 440 MWp Ciel & Terre and team has installed 280 MWp.

The implementation and challenges of the Changbin #3 and #4 floating solar projects

The implementation of the Changbin #3 and #4 floating solar projects began in October 2022. They achieved the first COD (Commercial Operations Date) in October 2023 with several large arrays installed on over 171 ha. of water surface in a nearly protected intertidal area.

According to Ciel & Terre, the project was one of the most technically challenging near-shore floating solar projects. The main challenge was the waves and tides that are “quite demanding for the anchoring in a cyclonic zone.”

As a result, Ciel & Terre Taiwan and HEXA Renewables, have tailored customized solutions such as an upgraded spreader bar and fixation parts as well as a reinforced connection pin to strengthen the material enough to resist wave conditions.

Additionally, the team created an innovative anchoring system that distributes the anchoring loads according to the tide level. Dubbed the “New Pillar Anchoring Solution” the system was developed in collaboration with experts from various fields such as marine engineering companies, plastic moulding companies, structural engineers, and hydraulic engineering experts.

The New Pillar Anchoring Solution is thus believed to be the most reliable solution in the near-shore type of environment. This is because it limits the movement of floating solar and consequently reduces the extrusion risk during water variation. Additionally, the system keeps the floating solar plant at its location at all times and in all conditions.

Bearing in mind that the system is patent, Changbin #3 and #4 floating solar projects are thus the 1st large-scale foaling solar projects to use it.

A new standard for sustainable energy production

The completion of one of Taiwan’s largest and most technically challenging near-shore floating solar projects reflects the joint endeavours of Ciel & Terre and HEXA Renewables in propelling renewable energy initiatives in Taiwan.

With a focus on innovative technology, strategic partnerships, and extensive construction assistance, this near-shore floating solar project also set a new standard for sustainable energy production according to Ciel & Terre.