Eco Marine Power expands Aquarius Eco Ship project

It wants other companies to join the Aquarius Eco Ship project in order to examine a wider range of technologies including fuel cells, air lubrication systems and electrical propulsion.

“A primary aim of opening up and widening the Aquarius Eco Ship project is to help develop further practical fuel and emission reduction technologies beyond our current focus on wind and solar power,” said Greg Atkinson, chief technology officer at Eco Marine Power.

“We also wish to extend the project’s reach further outside Japan and bring in additional investors so that we can help other start-ups in the maritime clean technology field.”

Eco Ship

The Aquarius Eco Ship concept design is an ongoing comprehensive study project focused on optimising the design of a large ocean-going ships including bulk carriers and cruise ships, to harness the power of the wind and sun using Aquarius MRE technology.

EWP’s Aquarius MRE is an innovative fuel saving and emission reduction system that incorporates a variety of elements including solar panels, energy storage modules, computer control systems and an advanced rigid sail design known as the EnergySail.

Elements of Aquarius MRE have already been commercialised and it is expected that the expanded project will lead to further fuel and emission reduction solutions being introduced into the market.

In addition to ship owners being invited to join the project, EMP is also reaching out to equipment vendors, classification societies and shipyards. It’s also looking for additional investors and strategic partners to help support sea trials and commercialise various technologies.

Companies already involved in the Aquarius Eco Ship Project include Teramoto Iron Works, The Furukawa Battery Company and KEI System.