Bulker tests wind and solar power systems to cut fuel use

A dry bulk carrier is now testing a combination of wind propulsion and solar power designed to reduce fuel use and emissions. Maritime Executive reports that the 60,155-dwt Maria Topic is taking part in the WHISPER project, which is testing technologies that can be added to existing commercial ships.

The vessel has been fitted with a tiltable rigid OceanWings sail and Solbian solar panels. It was recently upgraded by Tsuneishi Shipbuilding and is now sailing across the Pacific toward Vancouver as part of the sea trials.

The wind sail provides additional propulsion and is designed to reduce the power needed from the main engine. This can lower fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The solar panels generate renewable electricity for use on board and can reduce the need for auxiliary power.

The trials will examine how the systems perform during normal operations. The project team will measure energy production, fuel-saving potential, reliability and the impact of the equipment on ship and port operations. The results will help determine whether similar technologies can be added to more vessels while maintaining safety and normal operations.

WHISPER began in January 2023 and will run until the end of 2026. The EU-funded project includes 13 partners from six European countries. It aims to demonstrate fuel savings of around 30% on a retrofit bulk carrier and up to 15% on a retrofit containership.

A second demonstration is being prepared on a Samskip containership. It will use SideWind’s horizontal wind turbines together with Solbian solar panels. The project will also test solar panels installed on the roofs of the repurposed containers that house the wind turbines.

 

Picture: WHISPER