Optimizing Solar Potential: Site Potential Selection for Floating Photovoltaics in the Sepaku Semoi Dam Reservoir

Abstract

Green energy is considered an essential solution to address the world’s energy scarcity. However, there are several technologies available for producing green energy, including photovoltaics, with a specific focus on floating photovoltaics. The application of photovoltaics on water surfaces can enhance the cooling effect of solar modules, thereby achieving optimal temperatures. The implementation of floating photovoltaics should be approached with careful consideration, for instance, hydrodynamic aspects, reservoir water level fluctuations, forest shadow effects, and safety distance from Dam Facilities. Furthermore, in light of the relocation of the Indonesian National Capital City from Jakarta to Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN), the city’s green energy options must be thoroughly studied and researched. The Sepaku Semoi Dam is located in Penajam Paser Utara, Kalimantan Timur, and is designated as a flood control and raw rater supplier for IKN. In this research, hydrodynamic simulations using MIKE 21 were conducted to determine water surface velocities. These results were then combined with reservoir depth and the location of areas unaffected by forest shadows. The outcome of this analysis revealed that 15.2% of the water surface area in the Sepaku Semoi Dam Reservoir has the potential for installing floating photovoltaics. With an energy density of floating photovoltaic around 100 MW/km2, Sepaku Semoi Dam Reservoir would produce 50.83 MW. As a result, this research has generated a Potential Location Map for Floating Photovoltaics in Sepaku Semoi Reservoir Dam Reservoir.