New concept on 100.74 kWp floating solar photovoltaic plant and a real mechanical failures assessment: Case of study at Santa Clara hydroelectric power plant reservoir in southern Brazil

Abstract

Structural failures and partial sinking were assessed in a 100.74 kWp floating solar photovoltaic power plant installed in southern Brazil, at the Santa Clara HPP reservoir. Their occurred during a torrential rain of 159.6 mm, accompanied by wind gusts of 72 km/h, resulting in the platform losing its linearity and causing permanent deformations in the metallic structures. Computer simulation tests calculated the instantaneous forces to be greater than 22 kN. Repairs were carried out replacing the mobile longitudinal fastening elements between modules with rigid and semi-rigid sets. To prevent direct contact between the mooring modules and the PV platform, transverse footbridge lines and a new concept of anchorage modules were introduced, incorporating semi-rigid elements to absorb energy from impacts. Since then, the anchoring systems have been functioning, even under adverse subtropical climate conditions, as occurred in July 2023, with an extratropical cyclone with wind gusts of around 150 km/h.