SINN Power’s Vertical Floating Solar Tech Sets New Standard for Inland Water Energy

German renewable energy developer SINN Power has commissioned what is being called as the world’s first vertical floating solar photovoltaic (PV) system at Jais gravel pit in Bavaria’s Starnberg district. 

This 1.87 MW facility marks a significant milestone in utilizing inland water surfaces for solar energy generation, producing around 2 GWh annually while covering only 4.65 percent of the lake’s area.

Innovative Vertical Floating PV System

SINN Power's patented SKipp platform uses a vertical east–west orientation separated by open water corridors at least four meters wide, enhancing consistent daily power generation and boosting energy output during mornings and evenings compared to traditional PV layouts. 

The system’s unique keel-like substructure, extending up to 1.6 meters under the lake, helps the modules adjust to wind and water level changes. 

The inaugural phase slashed grid power consumption at the gravel pit by almost 60 percent, with expectations to trim grid usage by up to 70 percent as operations stabilize.

Regulatory Compliance and Expansion

The design complies with the German Federal Water Resources Act, maintaining water coverage well below the 15 percent regulatory limit and ensuring high power density. 

A second project phase will add 1.7 MW while keeping total coverage under 10 percent of the lake’s surface. Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder and Deputy Minister-President Hubert Aiwanger attended the official inauguration, highlighting the region’s focus on technological innovation and energy value chains.

SKipp technology is tailored for water bodies deeper than 1.6 meters, making it ideal for artificial lakes and gravel pits serving high-consumption users or regional grid support. 

The platform also meets requirements for offshore marine use, and SINN Power aims to roll it out for open water applications, including a 2023 proposal for a floating solar plant at Eching am Ammersee.

Global Floating Solar Trends

The floating solar market is expanding rapidly, projected to grow from USD 6.69 billion in 2024 to USD 75.76 billion by 2034, at a compound annual growth rate of 27.47 percent. 

Asia Pacific is a notable leader, with market size expected to reach USD 37.11 billion by 2034, driven by adoption in countries like India, China, and Japan. India hosts the 600 MW Omkareshwar Floating Solar Park in Madhya Pradesh, the largest of its kind in the country.

SINN Power’s innovative vertical floating solar tech has now set a new standard for Inland Water Energy.