In the heart of Iraq, where water scarcity and high population density pose significant challenges, a groundbreaking study led by Zeena A. Abdulhadi from the Department of Energy, College of Engineering, University of Baghdad, is shedding new light on the potential of floating photovoltaic (PV) solar systems. The research, published in the Journal of Engineering, focuses on the five major dams in Iraq: Dukan, Darbandikhan, Hamrin, Haditha, and Mosul, and explores how covering these reservoirs with floating solar panels could revolutionize energy production and water management.
The study delves into the advantages of floating solar systems, which not only generate electricity but also significantly reduce evaporation losses from the reservoirs. By simulating the coverage of these reservoirs at various percentages—ranging from 5% to 100%—Abdulhadi and her team uncovered staggering potential benefits. “Covering the reservoirs by 100% can produce enormous amounts of energy,” Abdulhadi explains. “For instance, the Darbandikhan dam alone could generate approximately 7,526,666 MW of power.”
The energy production figures are indeed eye-opening. At full coverage, the Dukan, Darbandikhan, Hamrin, Haditha, and Mosul dams could produce 230.53, 7,526,666, 15,561, 244,059, and 184,692 MW respectively. These numbers are not just impressive; they are transformative. They represent a paradigm shift in how we think about energy production and water management in arid regions.
But the benefits don’t stop at energy production. The study also reveals that covering the reservoirs can drastically reduce evaporation losses. At 100% coverage, the dams could save millions of cubic meters of water annually. For example, the Darbandikhan dam could conserve approximately 471.40 million cubic meters of water. “Covering the dam’s reservoirs by 75% could reduce the evaporation rate by 15 times,” Abdulhadi notes, highlighting the dual benefit of floating PV systems in both energy and water conservation.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are profound. Floating PV systems offer a viable solution to the land scarcity issue, which is a significant barrier to solar energy adoption in densely populated areas. By leveraging existing water bodies, countries like Iraq can harness solar energy without competing for valuable land resources. This not only accelerates the transition to renewable energy but also ensures water security, a critical factor in regions facing water scarcity.
The research published in the Journal of Engineering, also known as the Journal of Engineering Science, sets a precedent for future developments in the field. It underscores the need for integrated approaches that address multiple challenges simultaneously. As the world grapples with climate change and resource depletion, studies like this one provide a roadmap for sustainable development. They challenge us to think beyond traditional solutions and explore innovative technologies that can deliver multiple benefits.
The findings of Abdulhadi’s study are a call to action for policymakers, energy providers, and environmentalists. They demonstrate that with the right technology and strategic planning, it is possible to meet energy demands while conserving precious water resources. As we look to the future, floating PV systems could very well be the key to unlocking sustainable development in water-scarce regions around the world.
