Prototype version of Ship PV Module and Frame Kit at Onomichi MTTC (Image Credit: EMP)

Eco Marine Power (EMP) has released a study on the use of solar power on ships and the selection and installation of related equipment. This study was carried out over a five-year period and included: installation of a trial system on the high speed RoRo Ferry Blue Star Delos, several ship surveys, computer-aided analysis and evaluation of various equipment in a test lab and outdoor evaluation area.

The system design used as a basis for the study was EMP’s Aquarius Marine Solar Power. This system incorporates class-approved hardware and provides a stable and reliable source of emissions-free power onboard ships. It can also be used as an emergency backup power system. The study covered a range of topics including system design, system performance, installation methods, hardware selection and a review of marine-grade photovoltaic (PV) technologies.

As a result of the study, EMP has developed customized PV modules and frame kits that can be modified to suit a particular ship type or application. PV modules and mounting frames customization will be carried out in Onomichi, Japan, in cooperation with Teramoto Iron Works. EMP has also released VRLA hybrid battery packs using class-approved batteries in co-operation with The Furukawa Battery Company and is developing a PV module certification process. Learn more at Eco Marine Power.