US' tiny floating solar project uses sun-tracking for higher output

Source: interestingengineering
Author: @IntEngineering
Published: 8/29/2025
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Read original articleNoria Energy has initiated construction on Aurea Solar, a pioneering 50-kilowatt floating solar pilot project at the Fairmount Reservoir in Golden, Colorado. This project, developed in partnership with the Consolidated Mutual Water Company (CMWC), aims to supply clean energy for local water utility operations while demonstrating how reservoirs nationwide could serve as renewable power plants. Notably, Aurea Solar is the first U.S. project to integrate floating solar technology with high-performance sun-tracking capabilities, using Noria’s proprietary AquaPhi system. This system allows solar panels to rotate and follow the sun, increasing energy output by 10 to 20 percent compared to fixed floating solar arrays.
Floating solar offers dual benefits by generating renewable energy without occupying land and reducing water evaporation from reservoirs. Scheduled to begin operations in September 2025, Aurea Solar will power pumps that regulate water supply for over 100,000 residents in the Denver area. The project involves collaboration with GRID Alternatives and Hazelett Marine, enhancing
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energyrenewable-energyfloating-solarsolar-tracking-technologysolar-powerwater-conservationclean-energy