Floating Photovoltaic System Technology—Prospects of Its Implementation in Central Asian, South Asian and South East Asian Region

Central Asian and South Asian countries are particularly vulnerable to climate change, with issues such as drought and water scarcity becoming increasingly prevalent. The need for an environmentally friendly and cost-effective energy production technology has become pressing, with floating photovoltaic systems (FPVS) offering a viable alternative. FPVS technology involves the installation of photovoltaic panels on water bodies, such as reservoirs, lakes, or rivers, to generate electricity. This approach has several advantages over traditional land-based photovoltaic systems. Firstly, FPVS can be installed on existing water bodies, reducing the need for new land acquisition and minimizing the impact on local ecosystems. Secondly, the water body provides natural cooling, increasing the efficiency of the photovoltaic panels. Finally, FPVS can help to prevent water evaporation, which is a significant issue in arid regions. The technical feasibility of FPVS has been demonstrated through various case studies around the world. For instance, the implementation of FPVS in the Indus Basin has shown significant potential for reducing water evaporation and generating clean energy. Similarly, the Kabul River Basin in Central Asia has been identified as a suitable location for FPVS implementation, given its abundant water resources and high solar irradiance. The economic viability of FPVS is also being explored, with studies indicating that the technology can be cost-competitive with traditional energy sources. The ecological benefits of FPVS are also noteworthy. By reducing water evaporation, FPVS can help to maintain water levels in reservoirs and lakes, supporting aquatic ecosystems and preventing the loss of biodiversity. Additionally, FPVS can help to mitigate the impacts of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable energy production. The implementation of FPVS in Central Asian, South Asian, and South East Asian regions has the potential to make a significant contribution to the region's energy security and environmental sustainability. The prospects for FPVS implementation in the region are promising, with several countries already exploring the technology. For instance, India has launched several FPVS projects, including a 100 MW floating solar power plant on the Indus River. Similarly, Pakistan has announced plans to develop a 1 GW FPVS project on the Indus River. The successful implementation of FPVS in these countries has the potential to serve as a model for other countries in the region, promoting the adoption of sustainable energy technologies and reducing the region's reliance on fossil fuels.