Floating solar panels touch mud as Wusantou Reservoir levels drop; Energy Agency: Preventive removal completed

Recently, water levels at the Wusantou Reservoir in Tainan have dropped, raising concerns among local figures regarding floating solar power platforms touching bottom mud and exposed wiring. The Energy Agency stated today that the operator has activated drought response mechanisms, implementing preventive removal of supports and modules, and that all affected strings have been disconnected and isolated. The wiring uses high-specification dual-layer weather-resistant materials, and the overall structure of the site is under strict safety monitoring. According to the Water Resources Agency's website, as of 7:00 AM today, the storage rate of Wusantou Reservoir is 14%. The Energy Agency explained in a press release that floating solar power was designed with water level fluctuations and topographical factors during the dry season as part of its safety factor. With the continuous drop in water levels, the operator has strengthened management since last week, switching to daily on-site inspections. The Energy Agency stated that because some floating platforms touched the reservoir mud, the operator proactively carried out "preventive support and module removal operations" in specific areas to prevent structural stress or deformation risks caused by uneven terrain. The Energy Agency emphasized that all solar strings in the removed areas have been electrically isolated, meaning they are powered down and not generating electricity, which does not affect the overall operational safety of the system. Regarding concerns about exposed wiring and potential damage from direct sunlight, the Energy Agency stated that all currently exposed lines use a "dual-layer high-specification design." The outer layer uses high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is hard, corrosion-resistant, and highly heat-resistant (melting point 120-130°C), effectively blocking UV rays and mechanical force. The inner cable is also heat, moisture, and pressure resistant, ensuring safe long-term operation under direct sunlight. The Energy Agency mentioned that the government will continue to strictly supervise the operation and maintenance of reservoir solar sites and require operators to implement daily inspections and dynamic adjustments to ensure the highest standards of public safety while protecting water resources and green energy development. Jiang Ming-zong, a TPP candidate for Tainan City Council, posted a video on Facebook yesterday, pointing out that the reservoir's storage is down to 10-something percent, and that some solar panels are being pulled and damaged due to uneven terrain, with cables and ropes exposed to the sun.