Wattlab proves viability and scalability of solar power for bulk carriers with Solar Flatrack
Following successful pilot projects and the first full-scale installation on a seagoing vessel – the Vertom Tula, Wattlab is taking the next step: scaling its Solar Flatrack solution towards the international bulk shipping market. Currently deployable on vessels up to and including the Supramax segment, Wattlab has simultaneously begun development of seaworthy solar solutions for Panamax and even Capesize bulk carriers.
Wattlab, a specialist in solar power for shipping, has demonstrated through its Solar Flatrack system that solar energy can be a practical and scalable component of onboard energy supply, particularly for a vessel’s hotel load. After two pilot projects and a first full-scale installation on a coaster, results confirm that the system performs reliably at sea and directly contributes to fuel savings and emission reductions.
From Pilot to Practice
In collaboration with TNO and shipping company Vertom, the system was first tested on the Vertom Anette. The insights gained were subsequently applied to the Vertom Tula, where 44 Solar Flatracks reduce approximately 20 percent of the vessel’s onboard hotel load. The project was co-financed by the European Union’s Just Transition Fund (JTF), part of the European Green Deal’s drive toward climate neutrality by 2050.
“With this step, we show that solar power at sea is no longer an experiment, but a working solution,” said Bo Salet, CEO and co-founder of Wattlab. “Through the two pilot projects, we learned a great deal about usability, both from a technical perspective and in terms of how easily the crew can operate the system. We also gained valuable insights into seaworthiness. Based on this knowledge, we have significantly upgraded our Solar Flatrack system.”
No Impact on Operations
A key concern for shipowners is the impact on day-to-day operations, particularly when carrying deck cargo. The Solar Flatrack system has been designed to address this directly: panels can remain in place during loading and unloading, the system can be easily disconnected and stacked if required, and units can be compactly stored within the footprint of a single 20-foot container. As a result, the vessel’s operational flexibility remains fully intact.
Scaling Towards the Big Bulkers
With its current technology, Wattlab can deploy solar energy systems on coasters and vessels up to the Supramax segment, particularly on ships equipped with foldable or stackable hatch covers. Building on these results, the company has now begun development to serve larger vessel classes, including Panamax and bigger bulk carrier types.
“Market interest is growing rapidly,” Salet noted. “We have already engaged with more than 200 international parties interested in applying Solar Flatracks across their fleets.”
Contribution to Energy Transition and Regulatory Compliance
By reducing fuel consumption, Wattlab’s solar solution directly contributes to lower CO₂ emissions and improved performance on key indicators such as CII and EEXI. It also supports compliance with European regulations, including FuelEU Maritime and the EU ETS, while reducing shipowners’ dependence on volatile fuel prices.
With an expected return on investment of three to five years, Wattlab considers the Solar Flatrack a financially viable solution for decarbonising both existing and new vessels.
For more information visit www.wattlab.nl
