Statkraft Albania has entered into an agreement with Norwegian floating solar technology developer Ocean Sun for the delivery of a floating solar plant with a maximum capacity of 2 MW at the Banja reservoir in Albania.
The solar park will consist of 4 floating units of 0.5 MW each, with a total investment cost of EUR 2.3 million.
The contract is the first major commercial contract for Ocean Sun’s floating solar technology and the project will demonstrate the viability of the technology developed based on competence from Norwegian solar PV and maritime industry, the company explained.
“ Testing new technology for floating solar power panels fits very well with Statkraft’s strategy to grow our renewable energy generation from hydro, wind and solar. If the technology is proven successful and the potential for cost-competitiveness can be achieved, a wider application of floating solar may take place in other Statkraft locations,” said Christian Rynning-Tønnesen , CEO of Statkraft.
In December 2018, Statkraft Albania received a preliminary authorization from the Government of Albania for the implementation of a floating solar plant at Banja with a feed-in-tariff.
Subject to final regulatory approvals, the solar plant will be constructed during 2019/2020.