South Korea has made another significant step towards growing its renewable energy portfolio, launching a 47 MW floating solar project at Imha Dam, east of Andong. The facility is currently fully operational and represents the country’s largest floating photovoltaic installation on a multipurpose dam. 

It adds a layer of clean electricity generation to the site, which already has a 50 MW hydropower plant. Together, the two technologies ensure a consistent supply of power, with solar energy feeding the grid during the day and hydropower providing output after sunset.

The project is the result of a collaboration between KHNP, Korea Water Resources Corporation, Gyeongsangbuk Province, and the City of Andong. Top Solar handled engineering and construction, and the project was finished in late September at a cost of approximately $50 million. The floating system also showcases a unique cultural element. Scotra, a local company, provided the floating platform technology, and Shinsung E&G supplied the solar modules. 

The hybrid project is planned to generate almost 61 GWh of renewable electricity annually, enough to power around 22,000 houses. A profit-sharing system will benefit approximately 4,500 local inhabitants, boosting community involvement in renewable energy development.