Floating PV plant in Germany installed by Greenbuddies was connected to the grid

In August 2024, the first photovoltaic floating system with trackers in Germany was connected to the grid. This unique PV plant is located in the Hoym municipality and spans 7.655 square meters with an installed capacity of 1,6 MWp. The project repurposes a former mining pit, transforming a brownfield site into a valuable hub for clean energy generation.

Vertical sun-axis tracking, also known as azimuth tracking, is a specialized technology enabling solar panels to autonomously follow the sun's trajectory, thereby enhancing electricity generation efficiency. This cutting-edge technology results in greater power output for the solar system, while also significantly reducing the shading effect on the water surface. 

Greenbuddies oversaw this installation for our client, Floating Solar, and the project developer JM ProjektInvest. The Greenbuddies team installed 3.920 photovoltaic modules, each with a capacity of 410 Wp. Each year, the plant will generate 2,221 MWh, which is enough electricity to supply nearly 700 households. The energy harnessed from the plant is primarily used for the gravel plant’s own consumption, with any surplus electricity fed into the public grid.

Floating solar systems hold immense promise for use on inland lakes and reservoirs. This project represents not only an innovative leap in the renewable energy sector but also contributes significantly to the sustainable reclamation of brownfield sites, an essential aspect of environmental preservation.

Check out the beautiful aerial view of this floating PV island provided by JM ProjektInvest GmbH & Co. KG & Greenbuddies.