The Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology

Marfin goes solar

(Posted on 31/07/19)

Dry Bulk operator Marfin Management and Solar Panel specialists Solbian have announced the introduction of a first solar installation on a bulk carrier ship. This system has been installed on Paolo Topic vessel, a bulk carrier, managed by Marfin Management S.A.M. The project was officialised with the signature of an agreement on 8th July, in Montecarlo, Principality of Monaco.

The innovative installation originated by the joint work of the two companies together with TGE S.r.l., an Italian company specialized in the realization of solar plants. Special attention has been devoted in fitting the solar panels on the ship structure without creating fixed constraints to the load and unload operations. At this sake, a special removable structure was realized. The goal of this first prototype will be to assess the solar production, bearing in mind the idea of a future integration of solar with the hybridization of the three diesel genset, which until now were the only source of electric power on the ship.

The seamless integration of engines, batteries, solar panels and power distribution, overall controlled by a dedicated Energy Management System (EMS), will ensure M/S Paolo Topic a new level of competitiveness. A drastic reduction in fuel consumption and maintenance expenses, combined with the most advanced level of environmental performances, will make of M/S Paolo Topic the most technological advanced bulk carrier currently present in the world fleet. In addition to that, operation stability and increased efficiency will be ensured in all operation conditions including loading and unloading.

“We are pleased to have found like-minded partners to bring new technology and innovative thinking onboard to help improve our environmental performance leading the way towards a more sustainable future. We will be able to provide our customers and partners, the most advanced vessel’s performances and environmental quality without compromising on operation effectiveness and flexibility” says Alex Albertini, CEO at Marfin Management.

“With our unique technology, we are pleased to participate in an adventure with real impact capable to disrupt some fundamentals allowing for change.” Luca Bonci CEO at Solbian Energie Alternative S.r.l.