Project · JTF Rijnmond
Solar Power for Deep Sea Bulk Carriers
Scaling the proven Solar Flatrack to the next vessel class. A ruggedised, commercially viable solar system for large bulk carriers operating worldwide.
Background
From coaster to cape size
After successfully installing 44 Solar Flatracks on the MV Vertom Tula, the first full-scale solar system on a seagoing vessel independently validated by TNO, Wattlab is now taking the next step. Deep-sea bulk carriers represent a significantly larger and more challenging environment: cargo is dropped onto the deck from heights of 5 to 10 metres during loading, creating extreme mechanical impact that previous solar solutions simply could not withstand.
Together with Klaveness, Vertom, and TNO, Wattlab is developing a Solar Flatrack variant purpose-built for these conditions. The project also refines the existing coaster system and explores how adding a battery layer can substantially increase CO₂ savings across both vessel types.
Project objectives
Three goals. One bigger market.
The project pursues three parallel tracks, each one building on the last.
Solar system for deep sea bulk carriers
Design and produce a physically redesigned Solar Flatrack that withstands repeated cargo impact loads while remaining easy for the crew to operate and cost-effective to produce.
Improve and scale the coaster product
Turn the current prototype into a durable, market-ready finished product. More robust against the marine environment, with simplified electrical integration and lower production cost.
Increase CO₂ savings with battery integration
Develop a modular, plug-and-play battery concept that stores surplus solar energy and enables the auxiliary generator to switch off entirely. This delivers higher CO₂ savings and lower maintenance costs.
Work plan
Seven work packages
Activities run across seven parallel tracks from January 2026 to July 2027, covering hardware, data analysis, market development, regulations, and communication.
WP1 · Full-scale test on deep sea bulk carrier
Production of 54 Solar Flatracks, ship adjustments with Klaveness, and installation on board.
WP2 · Further Solar Flatrack development
Lifespan testing, production optimisation, redesign for deep sea conditions, class type approval, and alternative application exploration.
WP3 · Battery system design
Energy system modelling with TNO, battery prototype design and testing, and vessel energy simulation across global trade routes.
WP4 · Full-scale test analysis
Data analysis of solar yield, fuel savings, and shore power savings from the live pilot installation.
WP5 · Market and business development
Competitor analysis, alternative financing models, stakeholder and investor engagement, and IP protection strategy.
WP6 · Regulations and policy
Alignment with EEXI, CII, and IMO Net Zero. Documentation for international permits and classification society approval.
WP7 · Communication and dissemination
Communication materials for shipowners and the public. Conference and trade fair participation.
Consortium
Partners
Social impact
Good for the region, not just the sea
The project creates at least 5 new permanent jobs at Wattlab, with hiring focused on individuals facing barriers to employment through a partnership with Rotterdam Inclusief. Assembly takes place at Wattlab’s production facility in the Port of Rotterdam, keeping economic value in the Rijnmond region.
By reducing vessels’ shore power demand when docked, Solar Flatracks directly reduce electrical grid congestion in Rotterdam and other European ports. Training programmes are also being developed with Techniek College Rotterdam (TCR), aligned with MBO qualifications in electrical engineering, mechatronics, and maritime technology.
Funding
Co-financed by the European Union
This project is part of the JTF Rijnmond programme, which supports the just transition of the Groot-Rijnmond region towards a climate-neutral economy.
The project ‘Solar Power for Deep Sea Bulk Carriers’ is co-financed by the European Union through the Just Transition Fund (JTF), part of the European Green Deal, which aims at achieving EU climate-neutrality by 2050.
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