The article explores India’s rapid expansion of floating solar photovoltaic (FPV) systems to meet its renewable energy targets without using valuable land. While projects like the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Park promise reduced water evaporation and clean energy, they pose severe environmental risks if poorly planned. These include increased methane emissions in smaller water bodies, disrupted aquatic ecosystems from blocked sunlight, underwater noise pollution, and heavy metal leaching. To prevent long-term ecological and community damage, the author calls for strict regulatory frameworks, comprehensive environmental impact assessments, real-time monitoring, and alternative options like canal-top solar.
