Fort Lauderdale-based Nova Southeastern University (NSU) has become the first US university to host a commercial floating solar photovoltaic (FPV) system, which is being used to power one of its student housing complexes.
The 700kW array, developed by D3Energy, spans nearly two acres and includes 1,200 solar modules secured with an advanced anchoring system built for hurricane-force winds. It utilizes Ciel & Terre’s Hydrelio floating platform and is expected to be connected to the grid by the end of the year. Once complete, the project will offset a significant share of the electricity needs at Mako Hall, NSU’s latest student housing complex.
“This installation at NSU demonstrates how floating solar can deliver real benefits for institutions that may not have the land or rooftop space for large-scale solar,” said Stetson Tchividjian, Managing Director of D3Energy. “We’re proud to be pioneering solutions that reduce costs and support sustainability goals, while opening the door for universities to lead by example in renewable energy adoption. We also commend Nova’s leadership team for their forward-thinking approach and willingness to embrace innovative technologies.”
