Engineers from MAN, Braemar Technical Services along with additional four maritime companies are developing a zero-emissions superyacht, which will consist of an all-of-the-above selection of green technology.
Accordingly, the vessel will be equipped with all forms of renewable maritime power, also making use of wind, solar, hydro and thermal energy. The use of hydrogen fuel also helps, when used in combination with a fuel cell, hydrogen has a much higher usable energy content per pound than diesel, according to the design team.
Moreover, its DC electric bus is powered by multiple sources, such as hydrogen fuel cells, solar panels, lithium ion battery banks, wind turbines and a thermal recovery system and can accommodate other inputs as well as technology evolves.
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The vessel’s design comprises of a SkySail towing kite, which has an automatic steering system to keep it aligned and oriented properly, and can run in wind conditions between Beaufort 3-8. Given the right wind and course , the vessel is able to reduce fuel consumption from 10 to 35%.
Another ‘green’ feature is that when the vessel is anchored, its DP thrusters will be used as hydroturbines to generate power from the prevailing currents, enabling the vessel’s batteries to be recharged or to generate hydrogen by electrolysis.
Overall, the team behind this, look towards a zero emissions upon weight savings.
In light with this new project, in summer 2019 a new eco-yacht was launched to navigate in marine protected areas, to reduce environmental impact and allow navigation in marine protected areas.