The project ‘PV Systems for Seagoing Vessels’ focuses on the development and demonstration of an innovative Solar Deck solution. This project is co-funded by the European Union through the Just Transition Fund (JTF).
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The project ‘PV Systems for Seagoing Vessels’ focuses on the development and demonstration of an innovative Solar Deck solution. This project is co-funded by the European Union through the Just Transition Fund (JTF).
Engineered to plug into any vessel’s grid, reliable, scalable, and ready for real operations.
The Vertom Tula is the first sea-going vessel equipped with Wattlab’s solar system. The 77 kWp installation is divided into four independent solar groups connected directly to the 400 V AC hotel load switchboard. Since the vessel operates without batteries, a dedicated control system ensures zero feed-in by dynamically engaging or disengaging solar groups according to the instantaneous power demand. The same control system provides real-time power measurements and communicates with the vessel’s AMCS via Modbus, enabling seamless integration and precise load management. This approach effectively reduces the load on the grid converters and diesel generators, improving fuel efficiency and freeing additional power capacity for propulsion and onboard operations. Solar Capacity: 77 kWp Generators: 4 × 400 kVA Volvo Penta units Propulsion: 2 × 620 kVA drives System Integrator: Eekels Technology B.V.
The Blue Marlin demonstrates a highly advanced energy system architecture. The 51 kWp solar array connects to the 400 V AC switchboard through a combiner cabinet. A bidirectional grid converter (400 V ↔ 500 V) enables solar energy to contribute directly to both the hotel load and the propulsion systems. The 120 kWh high-voltage battery provides peak-shaving capability, allowing efficient power sharing between propulsion and auxiliary systems without the need for additional low-voltage ESS. This design minimizes fuel consumption while maximizing solar utilization and operational flexibility. Solar Capacity: 51 kWp Battery Capacity: 120 kWh (624 Vdc) Propulsion Power: 500 kW main thrusters + 300 kW bow thrusters System Integrator: Van Tiem Elektro B.V.
The Helios features a straightforward yet robust solar integration. The 117 kWp solar array feeds into a combiner cabinet connected directly to the 400 V AC switchboard supplying the hotel load. A 135 kVA energy storage system with 109 kWh of lithium batteries stabilizes the grid and stores excess solar power. This setup reduces generator runtime and fuel consumption while maintaining reliable power for onboard systems. In October 2024, the Helios was officially recognised by the Guinness World Records as the inland vessel with the largest solar installation, underscoring its pioneering role in maritime solar integration. Solar Capacity: 117 kWp Battery Capacity: 109 kWh (48 Vdc Lithium system) ESS Power: 135 kVA (Victron Quattro) Thruster Power: 2.3 MW (total installed) Generator Power: 1.72 MW (total installed) System Integrator: Van Tiem Elektro B.V.
