World’s largest floating solar plant debuts, drawing environmental concerns

Taiwan has deployed the world’s largest floating solar power plant, expanding an earlier installation to more than double its previous energy output. The plant now provides enough electricity to power 74,000 Taiwanese households and is expected to offset 136,000 tons of CO2 annually, equivalent to the emissions produced by burning around 150 million pounds of coal.

“Located in Changhua County in Taiwan, this groundbreaking project spans four plots totaling 347 hectares and showcases the next generation of renewable energy innovation,” HEXA Renewables, the developers behind this project, said in a statement. “Built on expertise, innovation and a commitment to sustainability, the project benefits the Taiwanese community by enhancing sustainable energy security while supporting global efforts in the fight against climate change.”

However, residents have raised concerns about the impact of this renewable energy infrastructure on the area’s ecosystem. Many are concerned about the potential effects on four protected bird species and the risk of water contamination.

“As the project connects to the open sea, any impact to surface runoff quality could affect coastal water quality. There is potential for increased turbidity; contamination from use of equipment (oils); and excavation of soils potentially releasing heavy metals,” a summary commissioned by HEXA Renewables found. “Public concerns regarding the impact of floating (photovoltaic) on intertidal biodiversity were raised.”

Communities are calling for ongoing monitoring of the area around the site to ensure environmental safeguards. Project developers have committed to establishing emergency response plans to address potential contaminant leaks into surrounding waters.

This project is set to help Taiwan get closer to its goal of installing 20 gigawatts worth of renewable energy by next year. That’s enough clean power to keep about 6 million average U.S homes running.