Japanese renewable energy firm Eco Marine Power (EMP) has commenced a feasibility study into installing its Aquarius Marine Renewable Energy (Aquarius MRE) system onto an LR2 tanker
The study is being undertaken in co-operation with the shipowner and will investigate how various technologies could reduce fuel consumption and emissions on board the vessel.
The 240-m LR2 tanker selected for the study is the largest ship of its kind that the company has investigated for installation of its full Aquarius MRE system.
Aquarius MRE is a zero-emissions power and propulsion system that incorporates automated rigid sails, marine-grade solar panels, energy storage modules, charging equipment and computer systems. MRE said the system will enable ships to tap into renewable energy by harnessing wind and solar energy. Computers automatically position the rigid sails to suit prevailing weather conditions. The sails can be lowered and stored when not in use or in bad weather.
The rigid sails are based on EMP’s proprietary Energysail technology and the devices can be stowed when the ship is at anchor or in harbour.
The feasibility study will include modelling the expected fuel consumption and emissions reductions that could be achieved through using Aquarius MRE and computational fluid dynamic modelling of airflow around the ship.
The study will also investigate installation locations for marine-grade solar panel and frames, an energy-storage system, an automated alarm and monitoring system and fitting the company’s Energysail technology onto the ship.
EMP expects to complete the feasibility study in early 2021. Also involved in the study are Teramoto Iron Works, The Furukawa Battery Company, KEI System and Fuji Trading.
The possibility of alternative propulsion systems is becoming a reality. This week Østensjø Rederi said it is developing new technology based on hydrogen as a safe and efficient energy source.
Riviera will host a week of 45-minute webinars focused on propulsion-related engineering commencing 5 May Register your interest now; and on 26 May, Riviera will host a week of webinars focused on maritime air pollution Register here
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