Japan designs ships to install wind and solar panels

Eco Marine Power (EMP) of Fukuoka, Japan, has begun detailed design of its Aquarius System wind and solar array.

The company is currently working with a number of development partners to develop the Aquarius System wind and solar panels. The panels will be used to collect wind and solar energy and then use it to power the ship, thereby reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The sturdy wind and solar panels will generate a renewable energy source that will help ships use renewable energy while at sea, in port or at anchor.

Each panel will be positioned by a computer control system developed by KEI Systems Co., Ltd. in Osaka, Japan. When not in use, the panels can be folded and stored. When wind conditions are unfavorable, the panels can be adjusted to reduce wind resistance while still collecting solar energy.

Recent advances in solar module technology mean that it is now possible to use a combined rigid sail and solar collector. Generating electricity using solar modules mounted on rigid but movable sails has many advantages over simply mounting solar panels on the deck of a ship.

Eco-Ship Dynamics is confident that the Aquarius wind and solar panels will bring attractive returns to shipping companies. The Aquarius wind and solar panels are meant to be used without redesigning various types of ships. Aquarius wind and solar panels can also be installed on naval, coast guard and fishery protection vessels.