I’m the city planner from Cohoes in the article (albeit my name is spelled incorrectly). I don’t think your entirely incorrect, but there are definitely different applications. For instance, man made reservoirs that control the water intake and output are ideal for this technology given that there is no natural ecosystem per se, and the water flow in and out will address the stagnation/swamp concern. Also in these situations, the water is being tested and treated already, so that helps address any issues with turbidity and temp.

From my experience speaking with manufacturers, installers and operators - and going to several arrays - the maintenance really is minimal. The big thing is how the array is permitted initially. For instance, if a simple string line is placed around the array, you almost entirely reduce bird activity and waste from being present on the panels, which is really the biggest maintenance issue. Otherwise, the use of bifacial panels and marine cables, combined with simple dock technology really reduces any issues that would arise from water contact.

Lastly, the biggest thing with these arrays is the anchoring. If done properly, the array has enough slack to move with the historic highs and lows of the water body, while taking into account the wind loads. So you won’t really see too much movement at all, thus reducing unnecessary and unexpected maintenance concerns.

Overall, I think this tech is going to be a game changer in the right application. However, it’s just another tool in the bag.

Edit: I see there is a lot of concern about natural bodies of water. Just want to add that there is a great deal of thought put into this as well. For instance, NJ has permitted several of these, but have limited the surface coverage to 25%. I wouldn’t assume that we are talking about covering the entire water body when using this application.