Design and Feasibility Analysis of a 1MWp Grid-Connected Floating Solar Photovoltaic Plant in Kaptai, Bangladesh

The increasing energy demand and limited fossil fuel reserves have shifted focus to solar energy, which is abundant, eco-friendly, and sustainable. Despite its advantages, the implementation of solar projects on land in Bangladesh faces significant challenges. These challenges include issues related to land availability, land development, land acquisition, a high rate of electricity pricing, and CO<inf xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">2</inf> emissions. To address these issues, this study explores on-grid floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems as a solution to reduce land use and lower electricity generation costs. A floating grid-connected photovoltaic system was simulated using PVsyst software, focusing on the Kaptai Lake area in Rangamati, Bangladesh. The study determines the optimal configuration by evaluating factors such as panel positioning, solar panel efficiency, available surface area, and economic and environmental benefits, projecting a total electricity generation of approximately 1 MW. The results, based on simulated data and theoretical analysis, suggest that FPV systems offer a viable and effective solution to the land scarcity challenges in Bangladesh, benefiting local communities. Overall, floating solar PV systems present a promising alternative to traditional land-based installations, addressing land scarcity while promoting sustainable energy. This research also has wider applicability in other remote coastal regions with no grid connection and adjacent lakes, demonstrating potential for sustainable development in such areas.