A 2008 report by CNN points out that the greenhouse gas emissions from ocean-going ships is a far greater problem than most people realize. The shipping industry emits an astonishing 1.2 billion tons of greenhouse gases per year — over twice the amount of the aviation industry! The Australian company, SolarSail, may offer the industry some hope.

Recipient of the Technical Innovation Award at the Sea trade China Awards 2010, SolarSailor specializes in hybrid marine power. Their SolarSail and Hybrid Marine technologies are patented for use on tankers, cruise liners, commercial ferries, private yachts, and unmanned coast guard drones. They have it all covered.

Their website offers this description of how their solar panels function like wings, “Comprising a unique pivotally mounted airfoil and joint it is attached in such a way as to be able to angle to the sun and/or the wind to harness solar power and sail, folding away when not in use.”

• This month SolarSail launched the first of four new hybrid-powered passenger ferries for the Hong Kong Jockey Club. The vessel seats up to 100 people.
• A hybrid SolarSailor ship has been running in the Sydney harbor since 2000.
• SolarSailor estimates that an 800 square meter SolarSail attached to a bulk carrier could reduce the vessel’s fuel consumption and associated emissions by 20% to 40% per year.

‘Is it solar powered?’ Imagine if this question became the new, ‘does it have meat in it?’ Something considered so possible. What if one day you had the option to take a cruise on a solar powered vessel? How amazing would it be if your favorite restaurant received its seafood and produce from a vessel powered by SolarSailor technology?

“Solar Sailor technology can be applied to everything from unmanned ocean vehicles up to ocean liners: In fifty years time people will look back at the ships of the 20th Century and ask where are the wings?” – Dr Robert Dane, CEO SolarSail.