Evaluation of The Potential for Renewable Energy Generation from Floating Solar PV at 9 Hydropower Dams in Thailand

This research aims to assess the potential of floating solar PV systems on major hydropower dams in Thailand, as outlined in the Alternative Energy Development Plan (AEDP 2018). The research focuses on nine dams under the management of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand--EGAT: Sirindhorn, Bhumibol, Sirikit, Srinagarind, Vajiralongkorn, Ubolratana, Chulabhorn, Ratchaprapha, and Bang Lang. The installation of floating solar PV systems must ensure no adverse impact on the existing hydropower facilities while maximizing electricity generation. Energy output was calculated using the System Advisor Model--SAM, considering variables such as solar resource availability, equipment efficiency, and local climate conditions. Upon completion of all projects in 2037, the simulation results indicate that the floating solar systems across the nine dams could produce an estimated 5,716 GWh/year. Bhumibol Dam achieved the highest annual output of 1,649 MWh and the Lowest Levelized Cost of Electricity--LCOE at 1.44 THB/kWh over 25 years. The floating solar PV systems exhibit minimal carbon dioxide (CO2eq) emissions, primarily concentrated in the manufacturing and installation phases. However, once operational, these systems can reduce CO2eq emissions by approximately 3,001,500 tCO2eq/year, contributing to climate change mitigation and promoting sustainable clean energy usage in the future.