The Energy Observer (EODev) project is basically a floating experimental renewable energy laboratory.
I read an interesting story last week about hydrogen and how it is making its way into the marine industry. Could this be the power of the future? The Energy Observer (EODev) is a catamaran that is basically a floating experimental renewable energy laboratory which has been circumnavigating the world. Based on this practical experience the EODev team have been advocating a smart combination of renewable energies such as solar combined with batteries. They claim that this works most efficiently in combination with hydrogen fuel cells. The hydrogen is produced by electrolysing sea water using the solar produced clean energy and stored onboard in special high-pressure tanks.
Already it seems that some other leisure craft producers are following the same hydrogen / electric combination concept, with some innovative models coming to market and being promoted as zero emission, long range luxury cruising yachts.
One example is the Aquon One, a Swiss designed and engineered 19.5 metre (68ft) motorised catamaran, which resulted from the work of a collaborative development team of multi-disciplined specialists.
Her rooftop is completely covered with 64m2 of monocrystalline photovoltaic panels which convert sunlight to electricity, producing up to 75 kWh/day. This clean energy is used to charge her lithium-Ion batteries, and in electrolysis to separate desalinated sea water into oxygen (O) and hydrogen (H2) gas. The H2 is compressed to 300 bar (4,500 psi) and stored in onboard tanks.
Another relatively new range of zero emission boats comes from Alva Yachts, a German brand offering a choice of sustainable catamarans, sailing yachts and luxury houseboats.
The full electric version of the Ocean Eco 90 comes with up to 2 x 500 kW gearless electric drives and 2 x 100 kVA DC generators. She has a potentially unlimited range at 4 to 5 knots, and up to 110 NM at 7 knots. There is also an optional hydrogen fuel cell with hydrogen storage tanks as a range extender, and even a kite for harnessing the wind. So, every possible renewable energy option for the owner who wants to cruise as far
Just recently it was announced that Emirates Team New Zealand, the defender going into the 37th America’s Cup, are developing a foiling hydrogen powered chase boat which they would like to have ready for the next AC series.
The details released so far, show a sleek design featuring electric motors on the bottom of the foils with batteries, hydrogen fuel cells and cylindrical storage tanks all built into a streamlined composite hull. For a more detailed story check out the Nov-Dec issue of Pacific PowerBoat, online next Monday (25th Oct).
