Floating Solar Photovoltaic Technology: Principles, Components, and Future Prospects

Access to reliable electrical energy is fundamental to modern life, underpinning every sector from industry to daily household activities. As global energy demand continues to rise, conventional land-based solar installations are constrained by limited available space, particularly in densely populated urban regions. Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FPV) technology offers a compelling alternative by mounting solar panels on water bodies such as lakes, reservoirs, and industrial ponds. This approach not only overcomes land scarcity but also improves panel efficiency through the natural cooling effect of water and helps reduce water evaporation in drought-prone areas. This paper examines the working principles, structural components, advantages, technical challenges, global applications, and future directions of floating solar technology, with particular attention to its role in sustainable energy transition.