Assessment of Technical Potential of Floating Solar Photovoltaic System for Electricity Generation in Zambia

Sustainable hydropower development provides a basis for a reliable and stable power source that is economical and environmentally friendly. Zambia is heavily dependent on hydropower whose hydrological pattern is facing serious threats from frequent droughts and severe weather conditions affecting power generation. However, Zambia’s hydropower is characterized by larger water reservoirs (Mulungushi, Itezhi Tezhi, Kafue Gorge and Kariba North) receiving high solar energy exceeding 2000 kWh/m2 per year. Hence, integration of floating solar PV systems with hydropower could help boost hydropower production during dry periods and save loss of water through vapor. The paper aims at assessing the technical potential of integrating floating solar PV systems for electricity generation on the existing larger hydropower water reservoirs. The findings indicate that larger hydropower reservoirs have a total surface area of 11,146 km2 equivalent to an annual theoretical solar energy potential of 25,610TWh.At 10% of the total coverage of all the surface areas, the technical potential is estimated at 172.76 GWP (Monocrystalline), 141.44 GWP (CIS) and 116.10 GWP (CdTe) equivalent to an annual solar electricity generation potential of 304 TWh, 244 TWh and 211TWh respectively. In short, Zambia has huge potential for integration of floating solar with hydropower using the existing power grid infrastructure to increase on the electricity generation for the nation. Additionally, the solar energy profile fits well with the electricity demand profile for Zambia which makes it a better alternative for the energy mix of the country. These findings are vital to providing a guide to decision-makers for the inclusion of floating solar energy in the future national energy mix and conservation of land.