The country that turned a 111-acre reservoir into a solar farm to solve a major energy problem

One of the biggest obstacles to expanding renewable energy is finding enough space to build it. Singapore, one of the world’s most densely populated countries, has come up with an unusual solution: instead of using valuable land, it built a massive solar farm that floats on water.

Located on the Tengeh Reservoir in northwestern Singapore, the project covers around 111 acres and consists of 122,000 solar panels mounted on floating platforms. Developed by Sembcorp Industries in partnership with Singapore’s National Water Agency (PUB), the installation has a generating capacity of 60 megawatt-peak (MWp), enough to supply electricity to around 16,000 homes for a year.

Why build a solar farm on water?

Singapore has very little spare land available for large renewable energy projects. With a population density of about 21,850 people per square mile, almost every available space is already occupied by housing, industry, roads, ports or commercial buildings.

To overcome this limitation, the government has increasingly looked at underused surfaces such as reservoirs and coastal waters. Floating solar allows the same area to store water while also generating electricity.

The panels are mounted on floating platforms anchored to the reservoir floor, with the electricity transmitted ashore through specialized underwater cables. The power generated helps operate Singapore’s five water treatment and distribution plants, reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.

How much difference does it make?

Around 95% of Singapore’s electricity still comes from imported natural gas, leaving the country exposed to volatile global energy prices and dependent on overseas supplies.

According to the project’s developers, the Tengeh floating solar farm will prevent around 35,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year – roughly equivalent to taking 7,000 cars off the road annually. The project forms part of Singapore’s Green Plan, which aims to accelerate the country’s transition toward cleaner energy.

What about the reservoir’s ecosystem?

Before construction began, pilot studies were carried out to assess whether the installation would affect water quality or aquatic wildlife. According to Singapore’s authorities, no significant impacts were detected.

The panels are spaced to allow sunlight to reach the water and air to circulate beneath them, while aeration systems help maintain healthy oxygen levels in the reservoir. The floating structures are made from high-density polyethylene, a recyclable material that is resistant to corrosion, intense sunlight and harsh weather, although it requires ongoing maintenance.

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