Innova Solar Colombia, a subsidiary of Innova Capital, will be the local developer and investor and C&T has agreed to supply its floating PV technology and know-how for the development of the floating solar projects.
Floating solar projects are those, where the PV projects are built with the panel floating on the surface of water bodies including hydroelectric dams, industrial water ponds and irrigation reservoirs, among others.
Innova managing partner Mukesh Prasad said: “Over the past few years Innova has always worked to bring the world’s best solar technology to Colombia and is excited to work with Ciel & Terre on deploying their innovative solar solution throughout the country.”
Innova’s Latin American Development head Patricia Rodriguez said: “Utilizing Ciel & Terre’s best in class technology and ISC’s development experience and reach in the region, we look forward to offering this innovative solution to our clients.”
Innova Capital says that it is relatively inexpensive and easy to install floating panels, compared to ground-mounted solar panels. Another advantage is that the floating panels can reduce water evaporation and help in the slow growth of algae in fresh water.
Innova Capital claims that there are a large number of reservoirs in Colombia with the right kind of infrastructure to develop these projects. As per the International Commission of Large Dams, Colombia presently has 62 reservoirs, classified as large dams.
And, as per the the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 20 of the largest reservoirs in Colombia, occupy an area of 53,495 hectares.
C&T international sales director Eva Pauly-Bowles said: “Since 2010 Ciel & Terre has promoted floating solar worldwide. Floating solar fills the gaps left by pursuing only ground mount and rooftop opportunities.
“Within our global approach we strategically identify regions, and ideal partners within the territory. We recognize Colombia as a promising region and Innova as our key partner and look forward to working with Innova to bring floating solar to Colombia.”
Image: Innova Capital to work with Ciel & Terre to develop floating solar projects in Colombia. Photo: Courtesy of Ciel & Terre International.
