Floating Photovoltaic Systems—Energy Performance and Environmental Challenges in Sustainable Development

Abstract

Floating photovoltaic parks represent a significant innovation in the field of renewable energy, offering a sustainable alternative for electricity production in the context of the global transition to low-carbon sources. This study investigates the technical feasibility, energy performance, and environmental implications of a 20 MWp floating photovoltaic plant integrated with a 40 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) in the Port of Constanța, a major logistics hub in the Black Sea region. A comprehensive modeling approach was developed, combining solar resource assessment, PV system simulation (PVsyst-like modelling), energy storage operation, hydrodynamic loading evaluation, and environmental impact screening. Results indicate an annual energy yield between 22.0 and 26.0 GWh, corresponding to a specific yield ranging between 1100 and 1300 kWh/kWp, depending on climatic variability and thermal performance assumptions. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate system performance under conservative, moderate, and optimistic solar yield scenarios specific to the Port of Constanța, within the realistic regional range of 1100–1300 kWh/kWp. The BESS enables peak-shaving and load-shifting, improving grid integration and reducing diesel generator usage in port operations. Hydrodynamic analysis indicates that three-point taut mooring systems can withstand local wave loads with acceptable safety factors under extreme storm scenarios. Environmentally, the system shows moderate impacts on underwater light availability and water temperature, which can be mitigated through careful siting and monitoring. Economically, the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) is estimated at 0.046–0.052 €/kWh, competitive with terrestrial PV and aligned with European port decarbonization targets. The study demonstrates that FPV-BESS hybrid systems can play a central role in sustainable port transformation and offers a replicable framework for similar coastal infrastructures worldwide.