Orlando Utilities Floating Solar, 2025

Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) is leading Florida’s clean energy transformation with the state’s largest floating solar project. The system was developed by D3Energy, the largest floating solar developer in the United States with more deployed floating PV systems than any other company nationwide. 

Built on a Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) retention pond, this innovative installation addresses land constraints by generating renewable electricity on water surfaces. The project helps support Orlando’s goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2030 and demonstrates how creative solutions can maximize existing resources while minimizing environmental impact. 

“This is the largest floating PV system in Florida. What also makes this project unique is that the array sits atop a Florida Department of Transportation retention pond. This marks the first project under a right-of-way agreement D3Energy holds with the department, opening the door for an entirely new class of solar development on state-owned ponds. Through this agreement, D3Energy now has access to thousands of acres of water across the state — an unprecedented opportunity to deploy large-scale solar without using any land.”
Stetson Tchividjian, Managing Director of D3Energy

Equipped with ZNShine 660W panels, Hydrelio® floating racking by Ciel & Terre and three SMA Highpower PEAK3 inverters, the system delivers reliable performance and advanced grid integration. By building on D3Energy's national floating solar portfolio, OUC and its partners are setting a new standard for sustainable energy innovation.