Techno-Hydrological Evaluation of Floating PV on Al-Adhaim Dam Using DEM

Abstract

One of the potential solutions for countries with both electricity and water deficits is Floating Solar Photovoltaics since these generate renewable energy while at the same time significantly reducing losses due to evaporation from reservoirs. The current paper incorporates a techno-hydrological study in evaluating its feasibility by proposing FPV installation over the Al-Adhaim Dam reservoir located in Northeast Iraq. This proposed integrated approach combines three main components: (i) DEM-derived elevation-area relationships; (ii) stage-varying water surface estimation; and, (iii) FPV energy-yield and evaporation reduction modeling. A high-resolution DEM is used for generating water surface area as a function of elevation allowing for dynamic estimation of available FPV footprint across operational levels. The approach gives scenario analysis at the minimum, normal, and maximum levels of operation, FPV coverage ratios and curtailment/dispatch strategies with practically oriented outputs for dam operators—1) annual energy yield estimate 2) avoided evaporation volume 3) water–energy benefits combined per unit covered area. It is an easily adaptable digital method for planning floating photovoltaics in semi-arid basins that will improve resilience in Iraq's water–energy management.