In a significant leap for offshore solar energy, Saipem has launched the first full-scale prototype of XolarSurf, a modular floating solar system designed for harsh marine environments. The XolarSurf floater, developed in collaboration with Moss Maritime (Saipem’s Norwegian subsidiary) and several subcontractors, was launched at sea at the Kystteknikk facilities on the island of Frøya, situated at the mouth of Norway’s Trondheim fjord.

This innovative solar floater is designed to withstand waves of up to 8 meters, making it an ideal solution for coastal and offshore locations where traditional solar setups may not be feasible. The XolarSurf prototype is expected to remain at sea for about one year, during which time its performance and power production capabilities will be rigorously monitored.

A Technological Breakthrough in Floating Solar Energy

XolarSurf represents a major technological advancement in the renewable energy sector. Its modular design consists of “islands” formed by smaller floaters, each capable of producing between 35-45 kWp (kilowatt-peak) of installed power. These floaters support photovoltaic panels specifically designed for marine environments, offering significant flexibility and scalability.

The development of XolarSurf is the culmination of several years of research, engineering, and testing. Moss Maritime, along with energy giant Equinor, conducted extensive component and model testing in labs and performed full-scale testing of critical marine operations. This comprehensive process ensured the solution’s readiness for the challenging conditions of offshore environments.

This solar technology is not only designed to operate in rough seas but also offers a versatile energy solution for hybrid projects like offshore wind farms, both fixed and floating. XolarSurf’s ability to generate electricity in remote areas with limited land access and its potential use in supporting the growing aquaculture industry demonstrate its broad applicability.

As Saipem continues to monitor the XolarSurf prototype over the next year, the results will likely provide valuable insights into the potential for large-scale deployment of floating solar parks in coastal and offshore regions. This marks a significant step forward in the global effort to diversify renewable energy sources and combat climate change.

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