Solbian Energie Alternative to collaborate with Eco Marine Power
Eco Marine Power (EMP) will collaborate with Solbian Energie Alternative Srl of Italy to jointly develop applications for its solar cell technology across a variety of marine renewable energy projects for shipping including the Aquarius MRE System, according to press release.
Initially this co-operation will be centred around lab testing activities in Osaka, Japan, with the focus being on incorporating Solbian's technology into EMP's EnergySail – a configurable rigid sail that is able to tap into the power of the wind & sun. However it is planned to expand the range of testing later this year to also include sea trials & apply Solbian technology to other projects such as the AquariusUSV and Aquarius Eco Ship.
The Solbian product, in its various versions, is a light, flexible and impact resistant PV module, which can even be walked upon. Lightness and flexibility make Solbian modules particularly suited to marine asl80_flexnd sustainable mobility applications.
The use of lightweight polymer films instead of traditional glass allows new applications for the proven technology of crystalline silicon cells. The careful choice of materials and their thickness creates the right balance between protection of thin photovoltaic cells and the creation of a flexible and light case.
The polymers used are also characterized by high resistance to weathering, enabling certification according to IEC 61215 and 61730, a guarantee of long life even under the most extreme conditions, such as on racing yachts where the Solbian technology was applied for the first time. Solbian Energie Alternative has also been certified to comply ISO 9001:2008, OHSAS 18001 & ISO 14001 -a new step in quality control.
The range of SolbianFlex panels is constantly evolving trying to meet the demands of the market while offering the possibility to realize custom products according to customers' requests.
This collaboration between Solbian and Eco Marine Power will help drive the adoption of renewable energy technologies across the shipping sector. This will also lead to development of further innovative solutions for marine applications in the years ahead which will help reduce noxious gas emissions from ships and vessels of all types in addition to reducing fuels costs.
Solbian Energie Alternative Srl was founded in 2009, following the success among professional sailors of the innovative SolbianFlex photovoltaic module developed in 2006 in collaboration with the CNR for Giovanni Soldini's Class 40. A product that combines high-efficiency monocrystalline cells laminated with special thin, light plastic polymers with high chemical and mechanical resilience.
The company's goal is to produce innovative photovoltaic panels in order to expand the scope of their applicability to sectors where lightweight, flexibility and efficiency are fundamental requirements. The characteristics of these flexible photovoltaic panels allow the production of energy from the sun, wherever there is a need, even in extreme conditions: marine, electric mobility, motorhomes and in special building-integrated architectural situations.
Eco Marine Power Co. Ltd. is an internationally focused technology company based in Fukuoka, Japan, that designs innovative eco-friendly solar, wind, electric and hybrid marine power and propulsion solutions. The company also develops sustainable ship concepts that incorporate the latest renewable energy technologies and is currently working on a number of design projects including the Aquarius MRE System, EnergySail, Aquarius Eco Ship, Aquarius USV and Medaka solar-electric eco-commuter ferry.