Solar energy and navy

 

Sailboats competition

Since time immemorial, solar energy, like a luminous and benevolent caress, has enveloped our world. Today, it proves to be one of the most radiant solutions to contemporary energy and ecological challenges. Whether used explicitly or implicitly, this infinite, ecological, and pure resource is increasingly attracting the attention of researchers, technicians, but especially individuals and authorities. There are various ways to capture solar energy. Whether through the use of photovoltaic cells that transform light into electricity by exploiting semiconductor materials such as silicon, by capturing heat directly via solar water heaters, through solar thermal power plants that concentrate sunlight using mirrors to drive steam turbines and generate electricity, or thanks to the ingenuity of architects who design buildings to optimize natural heating, lighting, and ventilation, solar energy offers a multitude of possibilities.
What a wonderful discovery made in 1839 by Edmond Becquerel: photovoltaic solar energy! The cells, like a complex network, catch the light photons to transform them into dynamic electrical energy. I am literally captivated by the creativity and technological advancements in the maritime field. Indeed, the oceans are responsible for nearly 3% of global CO₂ emissions, primarily due to the use of heavy fuel oil by ships worldwide.

Sailing with a solar sail at sea offers numerous advantages: it helps reduce emissions, lowers operational costs, and actively supports sustainable development. However, a few obstacles remain. The investment costs remain astronomical, adapting to ships already in service proves to be a real headache, and the results are subject to the whims of the weather.
Solar sails at sea take advantage of advancements made in various fields: more efficient solar panels, innovative materials that are both strong and lightweight and corrosion-resistant, navigation assisted by intelligent automated sails, and the use of lithium-ion or sodium-ion batteries to store energy (valuable during nights or cloudy days).
As global rules tighten—with bodies such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) aiming to halve CO₂ emissions by 2050—solar sailing at sea is set to become a cornerstone in the ecological transition of transporting goods and passengers.
Pioneering rigid solar sails, such as "EnergySails" or wing-type sails, have demonstrated remarkable fuel savings, reaching up to 30% on certain routes. These advancements pave the way for broader adoption in the field of maritime navigation.

Many shipping companies and shipyards are embarking on the adventure of solar sails, thus sailing towards a more ecological and innovative future. Among the notable initiatives, we can mention the Eco Marine Power project in Japan, which envisions hybrid rigid sails cleverly combining solar panels.
The Oceanbird, a proud Swedish vessel, will sail through the vastness of the Atlantic, carrying its precious automotive cargo, propelled by imposing sails and the benevolent power of the sun. Luxurious yachts and leisure catamarans are exploring the use of flexible solar sails to generate electricity on board, ensuring autonomy at sea and the well-being of travelers. 

The Norwegian cruise operator is embarking on the adventure of creating a ship with zero carbon emissions by 2030. Hurtigruten unveils the first images of its revolutionary electric ship, proudly featuring solar sails to sail towards an eco-friendly future. In pursuit of an ecological transformation, Hurtigruten plans to reduce the size of its fleet by opting for customized ships to ensure a carbon-neutral footprint. The initiative called "Sea Zero" brings together a dozen maritime partners in collaboration with the SINTEF research institute. Its goal is to cover distances with no carbon footprint whatsoever. The ships will sail using electric energy and will recharge their batteries once docked at port. They will face a significant challenge with their retractable sails of 1500 m² of solar panels, capable of meeting a multitude of energy needs on board. Hurtigruten also offers the possibility to navigate with propellers that turn in reverse and retractable thrusters. This giant of the seas will stretch over 135 meters, housing 270 cabins to pamper 500 travelers and accommodating 99 dedicated sailors. Thanks to its streamlined silhouette, it will be able to slice through the air with elegance, thereby reducing its energy expenditure. Artificial intelligence should make maneuvers easier. This artificial intelligence will gather information to perfect docking techniques tailored to each port, thereby optimizing maneuvers during unfavorable weather conditions. Travelers will have the power to regulate the airflow in their cabins using a mobile app while closely monitoring their energy footprint.

Navigation using solar sails at sea represents a silent but crucial revolution for the maritime industry. It skillfully merges heritage and innovation, harnessing natural energies to reinvent the art of sailing towards the future. Despite the persistent technical and economic challenges, the advancements made suggest a future where the oceans will be traversed by silent, ecological, and autonomous ships, sailing thanks to human ingenuity and the alliance of wind and solar energy.
Solar energy appears as a ray of hope for tomorrow, combining respect for nature and an inexhaustible source of innovative ideas. Despite the challenges it may present, this technology proves to be a valuable ally in building a cleaner, fairer, and more independent world. The solar star, a generous provider of life and dynamism, continues to guide us and push us towards unexplored horizons, flooding our minds with light and inspiration.