Welcome to our weekly newsletter focusing on environmental trends and sustainable solutions. I’m Emily, and I’ve been intrigued by floating solar technology, especially since it’s not commonly seen in Canada. However, Canadian researchers have developed a new ice-resistant floating solar system, sparking my interest.
This week’s highlights include:
– Canadians innovate with bubbly floating solar for icy lakes
– The Big Picture: Overflowing bike lots
– Potential heat recycling from data centers in cities
Floating solar panels are gaining popularity globally, with installations in countries like Japan, France, and Paraguay. These panels offer a clean energy solution without occupying land space, but their adoption in Canada has been limited, mainly due to challenges posed by harsh winters.
Researchers at Western University in Ontario, led by Koami Soulemane Hayibo, designed a floating solar system to prevent ice formation. By utilizing bubblers to circulate warmer water and prevent ice buildup, the system proved effective in maintaining electricity generation during winter.
While traditional land-mounted solar panels require expensive metal racks, floating panels offer a cost-effective alternative. Hayibo’s team used affordable plastic foam for support and innovative bubblers to prevent ice interference, ensuring optimal electricity generation.
Despite the bubblers consuming a portion of the electricity generated, the system’s efficiency surpasses land-based installations due to the cooling effect of water. The cost of electricity produced is comparable to other solar systems in Canada, even with room for further efficiency improvements.
The researchers are exploring additional optimizations, such as reducing microplastic shedding and preventing snow accumulation on panels. The technology shows promise for various applications, from powering former mines to conserving water in reservoirs.
Prof. Ibrahim Dincer from Ontario Tech University commended the innovative solution, suggesting potential applications for powering ferries and providing local electricity to remote communities.
Companies offering floating solar arrays have developed solutions for cold climates, emphasizing the importance of commercializing these technologies for widespread adoption.
The potential to recycle heat from data centers for community benefits is being explored, presenting an opportunity for sustainable energy practices in urban settings. By repurposing waste heat, buildings can contribute to decarbonization efforts and reduce overall emissions.
Hamilton and other communities are evaluating data center developments, with a focus on utilizing waste heat efficiently. Prof. James Cotton advocates for energy harvesting as a decarbonization strategy, emphasizing the importance of adopting these practices in Canada.
As sustainability and renewable energy become key considerations for new developments, cities like Hamilton have the opportunity to lead in implementing energy-saving technologies and promoting green operations.
For more environmental insights, stay tuned for our weekly updates. If you have any questions, feedback, or story suggestions, feel free to reach out to us at whatonearth@cbc.ca.
Thank you for reading, and remember to subscribe for our weekly newsletter every Thursday.
Editor: Emily Chung | Logo design: Sködt McNalty
[Source](https://www.cbc.ca/news/climate/what-on-earth-floating-solar-9.7264020)