SolarCare - SolarVisit
Past Event
2020-09-05
Virtual SolarVisit: Explore Plover Cove Reservoir
A virtual SolarVisit was held under The Jockey Club Solarcare Programme. By the virtual tour at Plover Cove Reservoir, participants got the chance to view and understand the solar energy system with floating panels through their computer monitors.
On 5 September, with the application of online conferencing and Facebook Live, CarbonCare InnoLab led more than 60 participants to explore the solar system at Plover Cove Reservoir. With the clear and detailed touring by Mr. Clement Leung, the previous head of the Mechanical and Electrical (Projects) Division in Water Supplies Department, the group had the opportunity to visit the restricted areas and to closely observe the space-saving solar energy system with floating panels. The presentation was absolutely comprehensive covering the nature of solar system with floating panels, advantages and global development trend as well. Apart from these background knowledge, speaker also illustrated the designs and technical features of both Plover Cove and Shek Pik Reservoirs. With an ending of his views on the possibility of fully applying this to all Hong Kong Reservoirs. Participants were gifted with an informative and rewarding tour. Floating solar panels can slow down the evaporation of water reserve and control the growth of algae, protecting the water resources in a more comprehensive way and further contributing on carbon reduction can really be the conclusion of solar system with floating panels. It is essential in mitigating climate change by replacing coal-fired power with solar energy system.
Participants were ardently involved during the Q&A session. The range of questions raised was definitely extensive and impressive. There were questions related to cost-effectiveness, continuality of the solar system, as well as the durability and recycle of the floating panels, etc. We even collected forward looking questions like the feasibility of building solar systems on the sea, shallow seabed or fish ponds. Clement explained in details about the erosiveness of sea water, the ever-changing environment at the sea and the application of solar panel in salt water. Though there is not yet any application of solar system at the sea but it’s very much a foresight that the world is working extremely active to explore the possibilities. Participants were highly concerned about the full application of solar energy in Hong Kong, upon the holistic and professional discussion among all, participants got it clearly that renewable energy can absolutely yield a more sustainable future. Let’s work hands in hands together to mitigate climate change for the planet in the long run.
CarbonCare InnoLab continuously holds different SolarVisits, targeting to build the path for the community to enter the world of sustainable energy. Please keep an eye on our Facebook page for future event releases.