Horticulture is becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of solar panels on water. Solar panels can be found in more and more water basins. The Dutch government is also enthusiastic, as witnessed by the special SDE subsidy.
However, it sometimes turns out that the regulations surrounding an environmental permit still have to be adapted to the new, sustainable technology. A good reason for Willem Verwoerd and Hans van Luijk of Zon op Waterbassin to call on entrepreneurs to quickly initiate the process for installing panels. “In this way, a possible permit period is directly linked to the SDE subsidy in September,” Willem explains.
Zon op Waterbassin delivered projects in Belgium and Noord-Brabant in 2020
Lobby
In previous years, calls were also made to start on time with a view to SDE subsidies. What makes this call different is that, in addition to the subsidy application, the permit process required by local authorities also takes time.
However, a lobby from the market and a growing number of requests for solar panels on water help to speed up this process, according Hans and Willem. "Local governments are increasingly recognising the unique opportunities that solar panels on water offer."
Solar panels on water provide a double use of scarce space, buffering water in dry and wet times and the panels have a high efficiency due to the cooling effect of the water. “This is an advantage, especially on sunny, warm days. This means that the return is about ten percent higher on an annual basis. ”
You can also do without SDE
Both men have gained a lot of experience through projects with horticulturalists in recent years and have the necessary projects in the pipeline for this year too. The latest SDE ++ round, which starts in September, will help. However, the rising costs for electricity from the grid make it attractive for more and more entrepreneurs to invest in floating solar panels, even without SDE, Willem emphasizes. "Certainly for companies with a relatively high daily consumption."
Zon op Waterbassin has all the necessary models for feasibility research and setting up a business case ready. “We therefore call on entrepreneurs who want to start on time to contact us as soon as possible. With a special roadmap and our guidance, nothing need stand in the way of sustainable, in-house production of energy. ”
For more information:
Zon op Waterbassin 
www.zonopwaterbassin.nl
welkom@zonopwaterbassin.nl
Willem Verwoerd
+31 6 415 14 033
Hans van Luijk
+31 6 557 37 902