SolarDuck, a startup focused on offshore floating solar energy solutions, aims to accelerate the energy transition by addressing the challenges associated with solar energy.
Founded in 2019 in Rotterdam, SolarDuck develops platforms that connect to form a circular structure in the ocean, providing a space-efficient solution for solar energy generation.
The technology is designed to withstand harsh offshore conditions and maximize efficiency, with triangular-shaped platforms offering better wave handling abilities.
Offshore solar energy offers advantages like cooling effects and utilizing the albedo effect, leading to increased efficiency with bifacial solar panels.
SolarDuck believes in the complementary nature of wind and solar energy, aiming to integrate both for peak output and cost-effectiveness in countries with limited land space for solar projects.
The startup has already completed successful installations in Japan and off the Dutch coast, showcasing the viability and scalability of its technology.
SolarDuck's focus on innovations in offshore floating solar aims to make renewable energy more accessible, competitive, and sustainable in the global energy landscape.
With a strategic approach to development and scaling, SolarDuck envisions significant growth in offshore solar projects, contributing to the green energy supply mix.
Despite funding challenges, SolarDuck continues to operate like a bootstrapped startup, emphasizing technology development and business model scalability.
The founder, Burgers, emphasizes the importance of combining different renewable energy sources to achieve a balanced energy ecosystem, with solar playing a pivotal role.