SolarDuck and RWE Successfully Install Offshore Floating Solar Pilot ‘Merganser’ off the Dutch Coast

With the support of RWE, the Dutch-Norwegian company SolarDuck has installed its offshore floating solar (OFPV) project, Merganser. This pilot project aims to test and demonstrate the structural, mooring, and electrical designs while gaining insights into the manufacturing, assembly, offshore installation, and maintenance methodologies necessary for large-scale commercial deployment of OFPV.

Merganser, with a capacity of 0.5 megawatt peak (MWp), is located in the Dutch North Sea, approximately 12 kilometers off the coast of Scheveningen. The scalable concept consists of six interconnected platforms designed to withstand extreme offshore conditions. The floating platforms were successfully connected to the mooring system in water 20 meters deep. SolarDuck’s triangular-shaped platform is designed to float several meters above the water, moving with the waves like a carpet. This innovative design keeps critical components dry, clean, and stable while maintaining the structural integrity of the semi-submersible floating structure. Recently, the design received the world’s first certification for OFPV from Bureau Veritas.

Sven Utermöhlen, CEO of RWE Offshore Wind, said, “Standalone or also in combination with offshore wind farms, offshore floating solar could open up further offshore renewable energy opportunities – especially for countries with lower average wind speeds but lots of sunlight. With Merganser, we are gaining unique insights and first-hand experience in one of the most challenging offshore environments in the world.”

Koen Burgers, CEO SolarDuck, added, “The successful installation of Merganser is proof of the dedication of SolarDuck’s team to electrify the world with offshore floating solar. However, we are not doing this alone. Our project partner, RWE, is a supporter of our technology and vision, in addition to other partners such as TNO, TU Delft, MARIN, and Deltares. Together with numerous supply chain partners, including Damen Shipyards, TMA, and Norsk Hydro, we have turned hard work into a positive change for the energy space.”