Dutch clean energy firm Wattlab has announced that its onboard solar power system is capable of reducing auxiliary fuel consumption by between 2% and 5%, following a series of successful pilot deployments and a completed full-scale installation at sea, according to Ship & Bunker.
Solar Flatracks in Action
The company’s Solar Flatrack system was demonstrated aboard several vessels, including the Vertom Tula, where a deployment of 44 solar panels was reported to offset approximately 20% of the ship’s hotel load — the energy used to power onboard systems and crew amenities, Ship & Bunker reports.
Bo Salet, CEO and co-founder of Wattlab, commented on the milestone: “With this step, we show that solar power at sea is no longer an experiment, but a working solution.”
Developed in Partnership
According to Ship & Bunker, the Solar Flatrack system was developed in collaboration with Dutch research institute TNO and shipping company Vertom. A key design consideration was operational compatibility — the system is engineered so that panels can either remain in position during cargo loading or be relocated as needed, ensuring no disruption to standard port operations.
Regulatory and Environmental Benefits
Wattlab has highlighted that the fuel reductions achieved by the system carry direct implications for emissions compliance. Ship & Bunker notes the company pointed to improved alignment with frameworks such as FuelEU Maritime and the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) as tangible benefits of deploying the technology.
Expansion Plans and Market Demand
Having initially focused on Supramax vessels, Wattlab is now developing versions of the system tailored for Panamax and Capesize bulk carriers, as reported by Ship & Bunker.
Salet also noted strong commercial traction: “Market interest is growing rapidly. We have already engaged with more than 200 international parties interested in applying Solar Flatracks across their fleets.”
The company estimates that operators can expect a return on investment within three to five years, according to Ship & Bunker.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
