Making Waves: How Floating Solar is Powering Southeast Asia Future

Southeast Asia(SEA) is embracing an innovative approach to renewable energy that's making waves, quite literally. Floating solar farms are transforming the region's energy landscape, turning ordinary lakes and reservoirs into power-generating powerhouses. This clever solution is especially valuable in a region like Singapore, where every square inch of land counts.

Then there’s efficiency. Ever noticed how your laptop runs better with good ventilation? Solar panels work similarly. Floating on water gives these panels a natural cooling effect, boosting their power output by 5-15% more power than their land-based cousins (traditional ground-mounted panels). Plus, they’re out in the open, with no buildings or trees to block the sun.

These panels are multitaskers, with benefits that surpass simple power generation. Not only do they generate power, but they also reduce evaporation, which preserves water-a huge plus in an area where every drop is precious. Take Singapore’s Duriangkang Reservoir project in Batam, Indonesia, for example. It’s designed to generate power while supporting smart water management.

Of course, we can’t ignore the big picture and its most pressing priority: combating climate change. Floating solar means more clean power; fewer fossil-fuel emissions; and the ability to share space with fish farms or irrigation systems. But it’s not as simple as tossing panels into a lake. Engineers and environmentalists work closely to protect fish populations, maintain water quality, and ensure these projects don't disrupt local ecosystems.

It’s no surprise that SEA governments are quickly jumping on board. In addition to Batam's Duriangkang reservoir project- a possible world record-setter at 2.2GW, there's Singapore's Kranji Reservoir project with around 150 MWp, hosting one of the region's biggest floating solar farms. Not to mention, the Philippines’ ongoing 2,000-hectare Laguna Lake project, estimated for completion in 2026.

Governments are increasingly recognising the benefits of floating solar and are implementing policies to support its development -think financial incentives, faster approvals, and feed-in tariffs; all working together to move these projects from concept to reality. With more investors paying attention, floating solar is set to grow rapidly across SEA.

The verdict? Floating solar has evolved from a clever concept into a practical solution for SEA, generating clean power, save land, and protect water resources all at once. That is indeed a game changer for the renewables industry.

​

References:

• https://www.saurenergy.asia/floating-solar-farm-planned-to-power-singapore-data-centers/?

• https://www.lrcksk.org/post/justgoodrenewables-the-power-of-laguna-lake?

• https://www.powerengineeringint.com/solar/sunseap-and-bp-batam-to-build-2-2gw-floating-pv-project-in-indonesia/

• https://www.greenmatch.co.uk/blog/floating-solar-panels

  ​

Powering Progress: Aurora’s Power & New Energies Placements in 2025 (YTD)

From January 2025 to date, Aurora Talent has successfully placed over 50 professionals across pivotal roles in the power and energy sector. Here’s a snapshot of our recent key placements:

• M&A Managers and an Energy Principal for leading consultancies advising on renewable energy transactions across Southeast Asia.

• Strategic manufacturing hires for global energy storage technology firms in China and India.

• Specialist roles for floating solar projects, including Design Engineers and Senior Project Managers for Independent Power Producers (IPPs).

• A Project Development Director for a European IPP spearheading offshore wind developments in North Asia.

• Country Managers for solar businesses in Vietnam and the Philippines, supporting expansion for high-growth multinationals.