The cargo vessel “Helios,” operated by HGK Shipping, has recently set a world record for the most solar panels installed on an inland waterway vessel.
On September 6th, the Guinness World Records officially recognized the vessel’s 312 solar panels, installed by the clean-tech start-up Wattlab, as a global benchmark. This record was announced during the World Port Days in Rotterdam, where key project partners, including HGK Shipping, Blommaert, and Wattlab, were in attendance.
The “Helios” is a 135-meter-long and 11.45-meter-wide dry cargo vessel with a hold capacity of 5,570 cubic meters. Its design features 27 hatch covers equipped with solar panels that generate up to 90 megawatt hours of electricity annually.
According to HGK Shipping, this sustainable technology allows the vessel to save approximately 90 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year.
The vessel’s name, “Helios,” is inspired by the Greek sun god, and the design incorporates yellow elements to reflect this theme.
Steffen Bauer, CEO of HGK Shipping, emphasized that while the world record is a significant achievement, it also highlights the broader goal of advancing climate protection and renewable energy use.
