At a glance

MarineSolar Energy Solutions has tested its NanoDeck™ photovoltaic energy system on a Rio Tinto vessel, RTM Cook, to evaluate its performance in real-world marine conditions. The trial showed the system's durability and potential to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions for ships. This development could lead to more sustainable energy solutions for the maritime industry.

Pioneering clean energy company MarineSolar Energy Solutions™ has conducted a pilot trial of its advanced NanoDeck™ photovoltaic (PV) energy system on RTM Cook, a Rio Tinto-owned vessel, as part of a non-commercial evaluation of the technology in real-world marine conditions*.

The trial marks a significant step in testing MarineSolar’s proprietary energy-saving PV technologies - the company’s NanoDeck™ system is designed to deliver robust, retrofittable renewable power for ships both at sea and in port, reducing reliance on fossil fuels - under some of the most challenging real-world marine conditions.

Over several months at sea, the system has demonstrated exceptional durability, withstanding powerful waves and high winds, while continuing to operate and transmit data. Early results confirm the technology’s potential to reduce fuel consumption, offering ship operators both carbon reduction and access to renewable power onboard.

Commenting on the project, Nigel Marc Roberts, CEO of MarineSolar Energy Solutions™, said: “The opportunity to trial our technology on a working carrier has been invaluable for evaluating the system in real-world conditions. The data we’ve gathered will inform the next phase of our technology development.”

MarineSolar’s NanoDeck™ system is designed to generate supplementary power for ships from solar energy. The company is exploring how the technology could be integrated with other emerging marine energy solutions, including alternative propulsion technologies and lower-emission fuels.

* The trial was conducted by Rio Tinto on a non-commercial basis to support the evaluation of the technology. Any future application would be subject to further assessment.