Marine technology company Wärtsilä has announced the successful installation and commissioning of a hybrid power system combined with a PV solar energy system, on board the M/V Paolo Topic bulk carrier vessel.
Wärtsilä’s HY Module containerized solution has been installed on the vessel’s deck to save space. It consists of an energy management system and batteries to deliver auxiliary power to the grid. Furthermore, the system can be coupled with other energy sources – such as PV panels – to provide additional benefits.
By optimizing onboard power production, consumption and management, the HY Module is expected to reduce fuel consumption and maintenance, in addition to lowering the operating costs and lessening the vessel’s environmental impact. Furthermore, the installation will place the ship in a positive position on the marine sector’s Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index and Carbon Intensity Indicator.
Wärtsilä’s compact containerized solution enables energy storage systems and other energy sources to be combined and integrated with the company’s energy management system (EMS) to provide auxiliary power. The EMS will have overall control of a vessel’s engines, batteries and power distribution.
“This installation represents a truly significant breakthrough in enabling the bulker fleet to increase its economic competitiveness and environmental performance,” said Giulio Tirelli, director of business development at Wärtsilä Marine Power. “The decarbonization of shipping is a major priority for stakeholders throughout the maritime sector and this unique solution helps us take a long step toward reaching this goal.”
The project was carried out in collaboration with Marfin Management, which manages the Topic fleet, and Solbian, a PV panel manufacturer.
“This is an extremely exciting development that will lead the way to a more sustainable future,” commented Alex Albertini, CEO of Marfin Management. “We will be able to provide our customers and partners with the most advanced vessel performance and environmental quality without compromising operational effectiveness or flexibility. We would like to thank all our partners who worked on the project for this highly innovative and effective solution.”
