EMP and F-WAVE to jointly develop solar power technology

These solar power systems will utilise F-WAVE’s shatterproof, flexible PV technology combined with EMP’s extensive experience in developing ship-based solar power systems.

F-WAVE’s flexible solar cells use the series-connection through apertures formed on film structure, allowing a wireless connection with the electrodes.

This tandem construction allows the solar cells to absorb a wide solar spectrum. Additionally, the cells demonstrate high performance in hot weather due in part to the annealing effect and their efficiency increases compared with the decrease that typically occurs with crystalline cells.

EMP’s Aquarius marine solar power system will incorporate the flexible PV panel technology and a customised version will also be fitted to EMP’s proprietary wind-assisted propulsion system, EnergySail, for evaluation at the Onomichi Marine Technology Test Centre in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.

The co-operation with F-WAVE is part of EMP’s ongoing rollout of zero-emissions power and propulsion systems. EMP chief technology officer Greg Atkinson said “We look forward to incorporating the patented F-WAVE solar cell technology into the solutions we have developed for shipping and maritime applications and also exploring new ways of integrating photovoltaics into the design and structure of ships.”

EMP will promote F-WAVE’s products globally for new shipbuilding projects.