The beginnings of floating solar photovoltaic power generation on water surfaces in Spain

The implementation and development of floating solar photovoltaic power plants in Spain has been possible thanks to the European Union's policies to promote renewable energies, the availability of abundant solar radiation and the existence of numerous reservoirs, a consequence of the hydraulic policy of the 1960s. The current stage of development is a consequence of the new commitment to renewable energies in order to comply with EU directives. The Renewable Energy Plans and the Spanish Government's support measures for this technology are contributing to its growth.The aim of this work is to analyse the implementation of floating photovoltaic solar energy in Spain. The method used has focused on the study of the role of the university in research on this subject, publications and the dissemination of knowledge on this type of installation; European, Spanish and regional regulations in relation to this energy sector; as well as Spanish companies manufacturing this technology; existing installations, and the "Sierra Brava" floating solar photovoltaic plant as a case study. The results confirm the clear relationship between incentive policy and its expansion, which is motivated by technological progress.