Canada’s cold winters have traditionally made floating solar technology a difficult fit, but researchers in Ontario may have found a solution.
A team from Western University has developed and tested a new type of floating solar system designed specifically to withstand ice formation during Canadian winters. The innovation could help expand renewable energy generation across the country while making use of lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and other bodies of water.
Floating solar, sometimes called “floatovoltaics,” involves mounting solar panels on structures that sit directly on the surface of the water.
The technology has become increasingly popular in warmer regions around the world because it offers several advantages:
Despite these benefits, floating solar has remained relatively rare in Canada due to one major challenge: winter ice.
The research team, led by postdoctoral researcher Koami Soulemane Hayibo, set out to tackle that problem.
In a test conducted on an artificial pond in southwestern Ontario, solar panels were mounted on inexpensive plastic foam floating on the water’s surface.
To prevent ice from building up around the panels, researchers installed small underwater bubblers beneath the system. Similar to aquarium aerators, these devices circulate warmer water from below, keeping the surface moving and reducing ice formation.
By preventing ice from accumulating around the panels, the system is able to continue generating electricity through colder months.
The researchers found that running the bubblers does consume some electricity, but the amount is relatively small compared to the energy generated by the solar panels.
They estimate that the overall electricity cost produced by the system is comparable to many traditional solar installations in Canada.
The team is continuing to refine the design, including:
If the technology proves commercially viable, it could open the door to a wide range of applications.
Possible locations include:
Researchers also note that floating solar systems can help conserve water by reducing evaporation, providing an additional environmental benefit.
As Canada continues expanding clean energy options, innovations like this demonstrate how researchers are adapting renewable technologies to work in uniquely Canadian conditions.
While floating solar is already common in many warmer countries, this new winter-resistant design could help make it a practical option in regions where ice and snow have previously limited its potential.
It’s still early days, but the project highlights how Canadian innovation could help unlock new sources of renewable energy while making better use of existing water resources.
Current weather conditions
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