Dutch solar innovator Wattlab has landed a significant contract with Norwegian shipping company Berge Rederi to equip the BRF Froan, anticipated to be the world’s largest battery-powered bulk carrier, with a cutting-edge solar energy system. This collaboration marks a pivotal step in the maritime industry’s shift towards sustainable energy solutions, as the vessel is set to launch next summer after construction is completed.
Under the terms of the agreement, Wattlab will install 96 Solar Flatracks on the BRF Froan, enabling the ship to generate an impressive 172.8 kWp of solar energy. The installation is scheduled to take place during a stopover in Flushing, Netherlands, where the solar system will be set up in just one day. Production of the Solar Flatracks is set to commence in May at Wattlab’s new facility located in the port of Rotterdam.
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The BRF Froan is designed to transport marble from Brønnøy and Visnes to a production facility in Elnesvågen. In addition to the solar energy system, the vessel will be equipped with two rotor sails measuring 24m by 4m each, which are expected to save an average of 339 kW per voyage. This combination of solar power and wind energy represents a significant advancement in reducing the environmental impact of maritime transport.
The ship will also feature a 23.5 MWh battery package that will be charged at both the loading port in Remman (Brønnøy) and the discharging port in Elnesvågen. To further enhance its sustainability, shore power facilities will be established at both ports, and the vessel will include an electric excavator to facilitate emission-free cargo operations.
Bo Salet, Co-Founder and CEO of Wattlab, expressed gratitude to Berge Rederi for their trust in the company’s technology. He emphasized the importance of this project as a demonstration of the growing demand for solar energy solutions in the shipping industry, both in the Netherlands and globally. Salet noted that this project is a testament to Wattlab’s ability to deliver proven technology at scale.
He also highlighted the efficiency of the installation process, stating, “For shipowners, time is money. Fast installation is crucial. Thanks to the smart design, installing the system is simple, fast, and flexible. Should the need arise to clear the deck for special cargo, the Solar Flatracks can easily be stacked on the footprint of a 20 ft container.”
This contract follows Wattlab’s recent achievement of completing the world’s first installation of a solar energy system on a seagoing vessel, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards revolutionizing maritime energy consumption.
