Nearshore floating solar photovoltaic systems: A review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33175/mtr.2026.284864Keywords:
Clean energy; Coastal energy; Mooring systems; Nearshore floating; Solar photovoltaic systems; Systematic reviewAbstract
The critical necessity of a global energy transition to a low-carbon energy mix underlines the importance of developing innovative renewable energy options that simultaneously meet energy and environmental concerns. Nearshore floating solar photovoltaic systems (N-FPVs) have been identified as a state-of-the-art renewable energy option that can increase solar photovoltaic energy while simultaneously improving coastal resilience challenges. The N-FPV approach uses photovoltaic panels on floating structures in sheltered marine environments, eliminating land use conflicts and using water-based cooling to increase efficiency while simultaneously improving responses to coastal resilience challenges due to climate change. In accordance with the ROSES approach to systematic evidence synthesis and reporting, this study uses a broad array of literature sources using the Scopus, Web of Science, and Dimensions databases. Thematic analysis of the literature on N-FPVs identifies three main themes: floating solar systems, coastal resilience and the low-carbon energy transition, and mooring systems and platform design. Compared to land-based solar photovoltaic systems, N-FPVs have higher upfront costs, with a competitive levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) between 271 and 703 USD/MWh (250 to 650 EUR/MWh) based on latitude and exposure, and potential hybridization with other marine energy systems. In addition, despite the lack of information on long-term ecological effects and hydrodynamic interactions, this study provides evidence that N-FPVs are not only a technological innovation but simultaneously a socio-environmental strategy that is integral to the global energy transition to a low-carbon energy mix.
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Cite this article:
APA Style:
Ruttanawijit, K., & Tiaple, Y. (2026). Nearshore floating solar photovoltaic systems: A review. Maritime Technology and Research, 8(3), 284864. https://doi.org/10.33175/mtr.2026.284864
MDPI Style:
Ruttanawijit, K.; Tiaple, Y. Nearshore floating solar photovoltaic systems: A review. Marit. Technol. Res. 2026, 8, 284864. https://doi.org/10.33175/mtr.2026.284864
Vancouver Style:
Ruttanawijit K, Tiaple Y. (2026). Nearshore floating solar photovoltaic systems: A review. Marit. Technol. Res. 8(3):284864. https://doi.org/10.33175/mtr.2026.284864
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Highlights
- First integrated systematic review of nearshore floating photovoltaic systems.
- Synthesizes 33 studies via ROSES methodology with cross-study thematic analysis.
- Hybrid moorings reduce peak tensions by 38 % over conventional catenary systems.
- Identifies critical gaps in field validation, design codes, and grid integration.
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