Taiwan economics ministry says reservoirs unaffected by floating solar panels

台灣經濟部稱，浮動式太陽能板不會影響水庫。

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs said long-term monitoring shows no evidence that floating solar power installations affect water quality in the nation’s reservoirs.

The MOEA’s Energy Administration said some social media users have used AI tools to fabricate and spread false information, including doctored videos, to stir controversy and cause public panic. The ministry condemned the practice and urged the public not to share unverified claims, per CNA.

According to the Energy Administration, both international studies and Taiwan’s monitoring data indicate that floating solar panels have no impact on reservoir water quality. It added that drinking water undergoes treatment at purification plants and is delivered only after meeting national standards.

The administration said floating photovoltaic panels contain no liquid electrolytes and are certified by international bodies such as the International Electrotechnical Commission. The Ministry of Environment has carried out tests confirming the panels meet water quality requirements.

To promote transparency, the Water Resources Agency provides up-to-date reservoir and water treatment center quality data on its website. The agency said current readings show no issues affecting water quality.

Most photovoltaic panels used in Taiwan are made of reinforced glass, an aluminum frame, encapsulation film, silicon wafers, and a backsheet — stable solid materials without the liquid electrolytes found in dry-cell or lead-acid batteries. They do not leak when damaged and must pass strict IEC standards, including weather and damp heat resistance, to ensure more than 20 years of outdoor reliability.

The MOENV and domestic solar companies have conducted immersion tests, all of which met water quality standards.

The MOEA urged the public to verify videos and messages from unknown sources or with exaggerated claims through official channels, and to avoid sharing unconfirmed information to prevent unnecessary panic or misunderstanding.