Floating solar projects can deliver up to 20% more energy than rooftop systems, according to Engineer Charming Medina of Fonrich, adding the Philippines’ many lakes and dams make it well-positioned to adopt this renewable technology at scale.

With land scarcity and growing demand limiting traditional solar farms, floating systems are drawing attention as a practical alternative. Reservoirs and dams can host large installations that produce more power while conserving water resources.

Charming,Fonrich’s Southeast Asia Regional Technical Sales lead, explained: “Floating solar panels can generate about 20% more power compared to rooftop installations and around 10% more than ground-mounted projects. The water cooling effect and the reflection of sunlight from water surfaces make this possible.”

Technical Features

Panels are mounted on high-density polyethylene (HDPE) floaters designed to resist acids, UV radiation, and salinity. Anchoring varies by site—concrete plates, sandbags, or surface boring for dams—ensuring stability even with shifting water levels.

Unlike rooftop or land systems, floating projects use portrait-only orientation to balance the center of gravity. “We can design systems to withstand winds of up to 80 meters per second,” Charming said. “The key is making sure the mounting structures are tailored to the specific environmental conditions of each site.”

Environmental Gains

Floating solar delivers co-benefits beyond electricity. It reduces evaporation in reservoirs, limits algae growth, and frees land for agriculture or housing.

“Floating solar is not just about producing more power,” Charming added. “It helps conserve water, prevents algae blooms, and makes use of idle surfaces that would otherwise go unused. In a country like the Philippines, this dual benefit for energy and water resources is crucial.”

Power AI Philippines’ Role

These insights were presented at the Floating Solar PV Installation & Material Optimization Seminar organized by Power AI Philippines on August 15, 2025, at Chandava Lake Resort in Cavinti, Laguna.

The event featured a live installation demo, hands-on training, and discussions on cost and durability. Engineers, EPCs, and renewable energy advocates nationwide took part. Other speakers included Engineer Augosto Reynes Jr. and Engineer Joel Aguillon.

Power AI Philippines President Coco Miao said: “We are the first to do on-site floating system training in the Philippines, and we’re excited to collaborate with other partners to bring these innovations to life.”

The seminar also highlighted Power AI’s work with industry partners like Aboitiz, covering both ground-mounted and floating solar designs.

Outlook for the Industry

Globally, floating solar has surpassed 6 GW in installed capacity, with Asia leading deployment. In the Philippines, early pilot projects on dams and reservoirs are preparing the ground for larger rollouts. With the government targeting 50% renewable energy in the power mix by 2040, floating systems are expected to play a key role.

“The technology is here and it is proven,” Charming said. “What we need now is strong partnerships between developers, regulators, and utilities to unlock its full potential.”

Floating solar positions the Philippines at the intersection of energy production, water conservation, and land efficiency. Power AI Philippines’ live demonstration marks a first step toward scaling up this dual-benefit technology.

Power Ai Philippines is a leading solar distribution and solutions provider, offering high-quality solar panels, inverters, energy storage systems, and floating PV arrays. With a focus on engineering, procurement, and after-sales support, the company empowers local installers to meet evolving market needs while prioritizing safety, sustainability, and innovation. For more information about Power Ai Philippines and upcoming events, visit https://powerai.ph.

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