Haringvliet

About this project

On the southern shore of the Hoeksche Waard, an initiative is being developed to create a floating solar park in the Haringvliet. Floating solar energy generation systems are a growing source of renewable energy that are making a significant contribution to the energy transition. The advantage of this type of solar park is that it does not use land that might also be needed for agricultural and/or another purpose. Floating solar systems consist of a floating structure topped with PV panels (photovoltaic panel) to convert solar energy into electricity.

The project site involves a plot of over 30 hectares of open water along the shore in front of the Westerse Polder wind farm, located on the west side of the Haringvliet Bridge (A29). The Haringvliet is a flowing river with passing ship traffic. Additionally, it is a Natura 2000 area, and the project area is privately owned. The site was formerly a sand extraction site. During field visits, few aquatic plants were found in the project area, making this location appear suitable for a floating solar project. On the eastern side, there is a small beach used by recreational visitors.

Currently, the optimal design of the solar park is being explored. This depends on various factors such as ecological integration, financial feasibility, and policy preferences. Each body of water and location has different characteristics. Based on these characteristics, the most suitable technology will be determined.

The project initiator, Begro Energy Projects, has received a preliminary agreement from the municipality of Hoeksche Waard for this project. The next steps include formalizing the permitting procedure, the participation process, the grid connection, and selecting a construction technology.