Wattlab solar solution for seagoing vessels
Dutch maritime solar specialist Wattlab has launched ‘SolarDeck’, a plug-and-play solar panel system designed for seagoing cargo ships.
Building on the success of its ‘SolarHatches’ for inland shipping, the new technology offers modular deck-mounted panels that promise fuel savings, emissions cuts and a three to five-year ROI.
Designed for fast installation via container twist locks and easy stowage during cargo operations, the system has been tested on Vertom’s 7,280 dwt general cargo vessel the ‘Anette’. Results show annual savings of 20 t of fuel and 68 t of CO₂.
Wattlab’s CEO Bo Salet highlights SolarDeck’s robustness and flexibility, adding that larger ships could see even greater benefits. Co-financed by the EU’s ‘Just Transition Fund’, the project aims to support maritime decarbonisation and improve compliance with FuelEU Maritime and EU ETS regulations. (ah)