O&L Nexentury Engineering has redefined the future of renewable energy with the launch of the visionary Philippsee Floating Photovoltaic (PV) Project in Bad Schönborn, Germany. As a flagship initiative of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, this project stands as a testament to the group’s commitment to innovative engineering and sustainable development.
Technical specifications
Solar panels
At the core of Philippsee’s design are 25 732 high-performance solar panels from Reisen, renowned for their durability and efficiency. These panels are divided into two specifications: 13 242 units at 580 Wp (Watt-peak – unit used to measure the output power of photovoltaic (solar) panels under standard test conditions) and 12 490 units at 585 Wp, summing up to a significant 15 MWp capacity.
These panels are strategically mounted on robust steel frames paired with injection-moulded plastic pontoons, designed for resilience and stability on water.
Floating structure
The pontoons, often referred to as ponton floats, form the foundational floating structures that mimic boats. A total of 1 434 ponton floats create a stable base for the solar panels, ingeniously designed to withstand the dynamic aquatic environment through custom injection moulding.
Anchoring system
Anchoring these structures are steel I-beam anchors, tailored in length from 6-10 metres to match the varying densities of the lakebed. These anchors are coupled with thick marine mooring anchors and marine nylon cables, ensuring a secure and durable installation.
Inverters and cabling
Energy conversion is managed by 36 state-of-the-art 330 kVA inverters, all installed on the water to minimise energy loss. The cabling system employs a sophisticated setup with DC cables of 6mm2 tin-plated copper and AC cables, ranging from 70mm2 to 150mm2, ensuring optimal conductivity and resilience against the movements on water.
Precision engineering
The Philippsee project reflects O&L Nexentury’s ethos of precision engineering. Each component, from panel placement to cable routing, is meticulously planned to maximise efficiency and durability. The group’s global team of experts in electrical, civil and renewable energy engineering ensures every phase of the project exceeds international standards.
Global expertise
By combining global expertise with local insights, O&L Nexentury is not just constructing Germany’s largest floating solar park. It is setting new benchmarks for the industry. The project management approach integrates advanced environmental impact studies and continuous monitoring, ensuring innovations harmonise with local ecosystems and contribute positively to the community.
Sustainability and innovation
The Philippsee project is more than a renewable energy initiative. It is a commitment to environmental stewardship and technological innovation. As O&L Nexentury moves forward, it remains dedicated to exploring and implementing cutting-edge solutions that address the global need for sustainable energy.