Question 1

Are the systems adapted to Nordic conditions?

Accepted Answer

Our floating solar panel systems are developed for Nordic conditions and withstand strong winds, waves, ice formation and snow. The patented anchoring keeps the system stable and secure, regardless of weather.

Question 2

Do the systems need to be removed in winter?

Accepted Answer

No, our solar panel systems do not need to be removed in winter. They are designed according to Eurocode standards and engineered to remain in place year-round, with full resistance to ice formation and snow loads.

Question 3

What happens if the pond is drained?

Accepted Answer

When drained, the system can remain in place – it rests stably on the bottom. If the pond needs maintenance, the installation can easily be moved or dismantled without damage.

Question 4

How are water level variations handled?

Accepted Answer

The anchoring is flexible and follows the movement of the water level. The standard system handles over 6 metres of variation without affecting stability or output – ideal for irrigation ponds, leachate ponds and water reservoirs. For larger level differences, we collaborate with SeaFlex, which has solutions tested in ponds with up to 50 metres of variation.

Question 5

How are the systems anchored?

Accepted Answer

The systems are anchored to land using Sunsurf Solar's FlexibleMooringSystem™, which is engineered to handle water level variations of more than 6 metres. The solution ensures stable operation and leaves the bottom completely undisturbed.

Question 6

Are the cables submerged in the water?

Accepted Answer

No – all cables are routed along Sunsurf Solar's cable walkways, where they are protected against abrasion and the effects of water movement. All cable management is carried out in accordance with Swedish standards.

Question 7

Can the systems be combined with battery storage?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Our systems can be combined with battery storage for increased self-sufficiency, load balancing and backup power.

Question 8

Can you deliver island mode or off-grid solutions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can deliver solutions for island mode (isolated systems) or off-grid where no grid connection is available. Ideal for irrigation ponds, water treatment facilities or industrial sites.

Question 9

How large a water surface is needed for a 100 kW installation?

Accepted Answer

A 100 kW floating solar installation requires approximately 500 m² of water surface, depending on panel type and layout.

Question 10

What proportion of the water surface should be covered?

Accepted Answer

The coverage ratio is an important factor for protecting the water in the best way possible. If the goal is to reduce algal blooms, it is actually beneficial to cover a larger proportion of the water surface with solar panels – it limits light penetration and counteracts algae growth. If instead the goal is to preserve the water's natural state without any impact, a lower coverage ratio can be chosen. PowerModule's design is also developed to allow both light and air to pass through.

Question 11

Are the pontoons made from safe materials?

Accepted Answer

Our pontoons are manufactured from HDPE (high-density polyethylene) – a stable and safe material that does not break down into microplastics. The HDPE we use is approved for drinking water, and all materials are certified and tested for aquatic environments.

Question 12

Do the solar panels reduce evaporation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, covering the water surface reduces evaporation.

Question 13

Do the solar panels affect algae growth?

Accepted Answer

Yes, by reducing light penetration at the surface, algae growth is limited. This can improve water quality and reduce the need for other measures.

Question 14

How does birdlife respond?

Accepted Answer

Our installations are always designed with consideration for birdlife. We have observed that birds sometimes seek shelter behind the installation in harsh weather, but they do not land on the solar panels. In ponds with a large bird population, a light cleaning of the panels at the beginning of summer can be beneficial to maintain high output.

Question 15

What is the payback period?

Accepted Answer

The payback period varies depending on factors such as self-consumption, the size of the solar park and site conditions. Our goal is always for the solar park to be a profitable investment. We therefore offer free consultations where we calculate the payback period based on your specific business.

Question 16

Do you offer PPA agreements?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer PPA agreements (Power Purchase Agreements) for businesses that want a stable electricity price over time while also reducing their energy costs. With a PPA agreement, you can access green electricity without tying up your own capital.

Question 17

Can we sell electricity back to the grid?

Accepted Answer

Yes – our systems are primarily designed for internal use, e.g. irrigation pumps, water treatment facilities, industrial premises or farms.

Question 18

How do floating solar panels differ from ground-mounted ones?

Accepted Answer

Floating solar panels are often more efficient thanks to the cooling effect and reflective surface of the water. No land area is required either, which preserves valuable agricultural or industrial land. Price-wise, floating solar is on a par with land-based solar power, and the parks are designed to be a long-term profitable investment.

Question 19

Why choose floating solar panels over rooftop-mounted ones?

Accepted Answer

Floating solar panels are a great option when the roof area is insufficient or has the wrong pitch. They also deliver up to 15% higher efficiency thanks to the water's cooling effect and reflections from the water surface. Siting the installation on water, isolated from sensitive industries, can also reduce fire risk and lower insurance costs.

Question 20

How long do the solar panels last?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels have a service life of 25–30 years, but often function longer – the manufacturers we work with guarantee that the panels retain at least 80% of their output after 25 years. Our mounting system, however, has a 40-year service life.

Question 21

What happens to the system when it reaches end of life?

Accepted Answer

Our mounting system is fully recyclable. The aluminium is returned to the material cycle, and our pontoon supplier takes back the pontoons at end of life to manufacture new ones from the same material. This ensures circular and sustainable use of resources throughout the system's entire life cycle.

Question 22

Can the system be dismantled?

Accepted Answer

The system can be easily dismantled. We offer take-back and recycling solutions as part of our sustainability commitment.

Question 23

Is planning permission required?

Accepted Answer

Planning permission is not usually required for floating solar panels, but the rules can vary depending on location and the size of the installation. We assist with all applications and communications with the County Administrative Board and the municipality to ensure that everything is approved before installation.

Question 24

How is PeatModule™ installed?

Accepted Answer

PeatModule™ is a surface-mounted solar power solution installed without pile driving or excavation. The mounting system is a load-bearing structure of HDPE pontoons and aluminium frames that distributes weight evenly, meaning the ground is not damaged or causes settlement. The construction is fully reversible – it can be relocated or removed without leaving a trace.

Question 25

What does it mean that the system is pile-free?

Accepted Answer

Being pile-free means that we do not drive any piles into the ground. Instead, wide pontoons are used that rest on top of the ground surface. This minimises point loading and makes installation straightforward.

Question 26

Does PeatModule™ work in a Nordic climate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. PeatModule™ was developed in Sweden for Nordic conditions. The flexible construction follows the ground's natural movements and withstands frost heave, ground movement and settlement without affecting the output or stability of the solar panels.

Question 27

How is ground pressure managed?

Accepted Answer

The weight from the solar panels is distributed evenly via the mounting system to minimise pressure and preserve the ground structure, which is particularly important on sensitive peatlands and landfills.

Question 28

How are the cables managed?

Accepted Answer

Cables are routed through the mounting system, where they are protected against abrasion and external impact. All cable management is carried out in accordance with Swedish standards.

Question 29

Can the system withstand flooded surfaces?

Accepted Answer

The system is semi-floating and engineered to withstand periodically flooded surfaces. The structure is unaffected by water and remains stable even at high ground moisture levels.

Question 30

How is the installation adapted to site conditions?

Accepted Answer

The installation is always adapted to the site conditions and designed in the way that best suits the location. The exact installation method is evaluated during the design phase to ensure a safe, efficient and sustainable solution.

Question 31

Can the system be moved to a new location?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The entire system can be dismantled and moved to a new location without loss of function or warranty.

Question 32

Why are peatlands and landfills suitable for solar power?

Accepted Answer

Rewetted peatlands are rarely suitable for agriculture or construction, and they typically have low nature conservation value. Similarly, capped landfills are well suited to solar power, as pile driving into the ground is avoided, thereby reducing the risk of methane gas emissions. By using these areas, we can produce green energy without competing with food production or other activities.

Question 33

Can PeatModule™ be combined with peatland rewetting?

Accepted Answer

Yes. PeatModule™ was developed specifically to be compatible with rewetting. This means peatlands can be restored at the same time as solar energy is produced – a unique double environmental benefit.

Question 34

Is this a large-scale solution?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our solutions make it possible to build large-scale solar power on land that would otherwise not be used productively – without occupying agricultural land. This is one of the cornerstones of Sunsurf Solar's product development.

Question 35

What is the payback period for PeatModule™?

Accepted Answer

The payback period varies depending on factors such as self-consumption, the size of the solar park and site conditions. Our goal is always for the solar park to be a profitable investment. We therefore offer free consultations where we calculate the payback period based on your specific business.

Question 36

Do you offer PPA agreements for PeatModule™?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer PPA agreements (Power Purchase Agreements) for businesses that want a stable electricity price over time while also reducing their energy costs. With a PPA agreement, you can access green electricity without tying up your own capital.

Question 37

Can we lease the land to Sunsurf?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer flexible business models – you can lease the land to Sunsurf.

Question 38

What is the price level for pile-free solar power?

Accepted Answer

Price-wise, pile-free solar power is on a par with land-based solar power, but with several practical advantages. Since the systems do not require pile driving, less ground preparation is needed, which often makes installation both simpler and faster.

Question 39

How long does the system last?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels have a service life of 25–30 years, but often function longer – the manufacturers we work with guarantee that the panels retain at least 80% of their output after 25 years. Our mounting system, however, has a 40-year service life.

Question 40

What happens to PeatModule™ at end of life?

Accepted Answer

Our mounting system is fully recyclable. The aluminium is returned to the material cycle, and our pontoon supplier takes back the pontoons at end of life to manufacture new ones from the same material.

Question 41

Can the system be dismantled and recycled?

Accepted Answer

The system can be easily dismantled. We offer take-back and recycling solutions as part of our sustainability commitment.

Question 42

Is a permit required for PeatModule™?

Accepted Answer

The rules can vary depending on location and the size of the installation. We assist with all applications and communications with the County Administrative Board and the municipality to ensure that everything is approved before installation.

Frequently asked questions about solar and floating solar parks

Floating solar panels – PowerModule™

Pile-free solar panels – PeatModule™

More questions?