WHY float

The Case for Moving Solar to Water

As the solar wave grows, stakeholders across the spectrum are increasingly voicing concerns about the impact and efficiency of traditional land-based solar installations.
Preserving agricultural and pastoral land
Minimizing tree removal
Reducing aesthetic impact on landscapes
Ability to site power generation closer to where it is consumed
WHY HOST

The Benefits For Waterbody Owners

Floating solar projects offer an innovative way for waterbody owners to maximize the value of underutilized non-recreational aquatic real estate. By hosting these installations, owners can enjoy multiple benefits.
No-risk added value that won't replace primary use
Up to 40 years of lease revenue
Guaranteed discount or fixed rate for power
Water quality benefits from increased shading

Floating solar strengthens and balances the three pillars of the food-water-energy nexus, all of which are under pressure as demand rapidly increases.  

FOOD
Preserving Farmland
Agriculture is the largest user of America's land and water resources. Third Pillar believes in preserving farmland for food production and does not target it for solar development.
WATER
Conserving
Water
Fresh water is used to to generate most forms of energy and produce all food and beverages. Massive volumes must be stored in reservoirs and are then lost to evaporation. Third Pillar designs floating solar projects that reduce evaporation and improve water quality.
ENERGY
Minimizing Solar's Footprint
Solar has become among the cheapest sources of energy generation on the planet. However, it requires a significant amount of space and disrupts the pre-existing use of the land. Third Pillar sites floating solar on under-utilized waterbodies and brownfields with little or no recreation.

Why Floating Solar? Dive Deeper

Floating photovoltaics may reduce the risk of hydro-dominated energy development in Africa
Long Popular In Asia, Floating Solar Catches on in US
Impacts of Floating Photovoltaic Solar Energy Installations on Small, Polymictic Water Bodies
dive deeper in the third pillar knowledgehub

Talk to us and see if floating solar is an option for you

If you are the owner or operator of a waterbody you can put it to work generating renewable energy and income. Get in touch and we can help you explore the opportunity.
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