DNV assessment clears Fred. Olsen 1848’s floating solar system for rougher conditions

July 1, 2026, by Nadja Skopljak

Energy expert and assurance provider DNV has completed an independent technical review of Fred. Olsen 1848’s floating photovoltaic (FPV) concept designed to operate in rougher, more exposed wave conditions than conventional FPV solutions.

“This Statement of Compliance represents a significant milestone for BRIZO. It provides confirmation of the strength of our technical approach and demonstrates that the technology is able to operate in more demanding conditions. It is an important step towards advancing the bankability of our solution and supporting our commercial roadmap,” said Geir Grimsrud, Chief Technical Officer at Fred. Olsen 1848.

The BRIZO floating solar system uses a flexible rope-mesh and tensioning system and is designed for inland, coastal, and near-shore environments where traditional calm-water floating solar systems may face technical and operational limitations.

DNV’s review covered the system’s design methodologies, hydrodynamic load assessment, from physical model testing, structural behaviour, and testing procedures, drawing on knowledge from the development of DNV standards ST-E309, ST-C108, and RP-0584.

According to the firm, the assessment provides an independent technical basis for the technology to progress toward project development, bankability discussions, and future commercial deployment.

“Floating solar is entering a new phase of maturity, where the industry must move beyond sheltered waters to unlock meaningful scale,” said Prajeev Rasiah, Senior Vice President and Regional Director for Northern Europe, Energy Systems at DNV.

“Technologies capable of operating in more exposed environments could significantly expand the addressable market for FPV, particularly in regions facing land constraints, competing land use, or growing pressure on grid infrastructure. Independent technical assurance is essential to demonstrating that these systems can withstand demanding environmental conditions over their full operational lifetime and give developers and investors confidence as the market evolves.”