The SolarDeck system was tested on Vertom’s 7,280dwt cargo vessel, Anette, with support from the EU’s Just Transition Fund. Credit: Wattlab.

Netherlands-based maritime solar technology firm Wattlab has launched its new product, SolarDeck, aimed at the seagoing shipping sector.

The new plug-and-play solar power system consists of modular solar panels that can be mounted on the decks of vessels to lower fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.

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The implementation of SolarDeck on a general cargo vessel is projected to yield considerable savings under the Fuel EU Maritime and EU ETS regulations, with an anticipated return on investment of three to five years, according to the company.

SolarDeck was developed through a collaboration with the Dutch Organisation for Applied Scientific Research, TNO, and the international shipping company Vertom.

Over the past 18 months, the system has been tested aboard Vertom’s 7,280dwt general cargo vessel, Anette. The testing phase has yielded positive outcomes.

For the coaster-type vessel Anette, which measures 119m in length and 14m in width, Wattlab anticipates a reduction of 20t of fuel and 68t of CO₂ emissions annually.

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These reductions are expected to positively influence a shipowner’s Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) scores, alongside potential financial benefits from the Fuel EU Maritime and EU ETS frameworks.

Wattlab CEO Bo Salet said: “At all times during the design of SolarDeck, we prioritised the shipowner’s requirements. We know that ‘time is money.

“That’s why the SolarDeck can be installed in a minimum amount of time using container twist lock fittings. It also does not impact normal loading and unloading procedures.”

The pilot project for SolarDeck has received co-financing from the European Union’s Just Transition Fund, which is part of the Cohesion Policy for 2021-2027.

This initiative is a component of the Just Transition Mechanism, aligned with the European Green Deal’s objective of achieving climate neutrality in the EU by 2050.

Founded in 2017, Wattlab initially concentrated on the inland shipping market with its Solar Flatrack system, which features movable and stackable solar panels along with integrated inverters.

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