Aquarius MRE Project and Shipowner Prepare for Sea Trials

Japan-based Eco Marine Power (EMP) has started preparing for sea trials of its Aquarius Marine Renewable Energy (MRE) solution involving several large bulk carriers.

Being undertaken in co-operation with strategic partners and compatriot ship owner Hisafuku Kisen K.K., the preparatory work will lead to the world’s first installation of an integrated rigid sail and solar power system for ships using EMP’s patented technologies including the EnergySail.

Currently underway is a feasibility study involving several large bulk carriers including the Belgrano, Nord Gemini and Bulk Chile. For each ship an estimate of the propulsive power that could be provided by an EnergySail array will be prepared according to the routes they operate on. In addition the total amount of solar power that could be installed on each vessel will be determined.

“This is a major step forward towards a more sustainable future for shipping and is expected to result in the wider deployment of EMP’s solutions on ships ranging from coastal cargo vessels to bulk ore carriers and cruise ships,” EMP said.

After the feasibility study is completed one ship will be selected for the sea trials phase. During this phase a trial configuration that will incorporate all the elements of Aquarius MRE will be installed and evaluated during a period of around 12 to 18 months.

World first deployment of patented rigid sail and solar power system is set to commence during 2018.