Advocating for Floating Solar
Advocating for Floating SolarAdvocating for Floating SolarAdvocating for Floating Solar
In the Colorado River Basin and beyond.
Mission
Water Wise Solar Solutions was formed to study the application of Utility Scale Floating Photovoltaic Solar Arrays as an effective mitigation strategy for evaporative water loss within the Colorado River Basin.
Colorado River Basin (CRB) Water Supply
Saving Water with Floating Solar
Environmental, Recreational and Permitting Factors
May 5, 2025
Floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems offer a compelling suite of environmental co-benefits, making them particularly well-suited for deployment in sensitive or multi-use aquatic environments. In addition to water conservation and clean energy generation, FPV installations contribute to ecosystem protection, water quality improvement, and reduced land disturbance.
Environmental Advantages
Multiple studies and pilot programs—including those analyzed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)—highlight a growing consensus around the ecological benefits of FPV systems:
- Algae Suppression: FPV arrays reduce the amount of solar radiation penetrating the water’s surface, limiting the conditions necessary for harmful algal blooms. This effect is particularly valuable during summer months and benefits downstream users by reducing water treatment needs and improving overall water quality.
- Improved Aquatic Habitat: Shading from FPV arrays can moderate surface water temperatures, creating more favorable conditions for cold-water fish species. This may complement integrated aquaculture strategies or improve sport fishing ecosystems in certain reservoir environments.
- Dust and Erosion Control: FPV systems reduce surface wind exposure and dampen wave action beneath the array, minimizing shoreline erosion and airborne dust. These benefits are especially relevant in arid and semi-arid regions like Utah, Arizona and New Mexico, where dust and sedimentation are persistent management concerns.
- Incidental Wildlife Habitat: Floating platforms can provide resting or nesting opportunities for birds, potentially offering incidental habitat benefits. However, the impact on migratory birds or protected species should be assessed on a case-by-case basis through early-stage environmental review.
To date, no consistent global reports of significant negative environmental impacts from FPV arrays have emerged. Nevertheless, industry best practices recommend ongoing site-specific monitoring, especially for large-scale deployments or in reservoirs serving multiple public or ecological functions.
Permitting Considerations
While FPV technology is relatively new to the Southwestern United States, its permitting process can build upon existing frameworks used for land-based solar, hydroelectric, and water infrastructure. Early alignment with regulatory and stakeholder needs will be critical for success.
- Environmental Review: Depending on reservoir ownership, intended use, and proximity to sensitive ecosystems, FPV projects may require state-level environmental assessments or water quality certifications. Standardizing the review process—particularly for pilot or municipal-scale deployments—could help streamline approvals and accelerate implementation timelines.
- Recreational Use: In reservoirs that support boating, swimming, or fishing, FPV siting must be coordinated with local user groups to preserve recreational access. Designating “FPV zones” or employing seasonal deployment strategies could help mitigate public concern. Although some resistance is likely due to perceived surface restrictions, proactive communication about the tangible water savings and environmental benefits of FPV can build public support. Especially when compared to other conservation measures, FPV arrays represent a low-conflict, high-yield solution.
- Multi-Agency Coordination: Many of Southwestern United States larger reservoirs are managed by federal entities such as the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, requiring coordination at the federal level. Additionally, key state agencies may play roles in permitting or oversight, including the Environment Department, the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD), the Office of the State Engineer (OSE), and the Department of Game and Fish. Depending on site location and project scope, coordination may also be needed with regional water conservancy districts, municipal utilities, and tribal governments. Early and proactive engagement with all relevant stakeholders will be essential for successful FPV deployment on shared or multi-use water bodies.
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