Hisafuku Kisen in sail and solar trial

The sea trials of EMP’s Aquarius Marine Renewable Energy (MRE) solution, which will be undertaken in partnership with ship owner Hisafuku Kisen K.K. of Onomichi, Japan, could result in the wider deployment of EMP’s solutions on ships ranging from bulk ore carriers to cruise ships.

Greg Atkinson, chief technology officer and founder of Eco Marine Power, said: “Together we believe Aquarius MRE will pave the way to the widespread adoption of renewable energy on ships.”

Currently, a feasibility study is underway 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.

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 approximately 12 to 18 months.

A number of strategic partners are involved in the Aquarius MRE Project including KEI System Co Ltd, The Furukawa Battery Company and Teramoto Iron Works Co Ltd.

Additionally, EMP is interested in hearing from other companies that may wish to be involved during the sea trials phase of the project.