Eco Marine Power’s latest solar trial on a bulk carrier isn’t just another green tech test—it’s a live lab for the maritime industry’s clean energy future. By installing solar panels and mounting frames on a working vessel, the company is pushing beyond simulations and into real-world conditions. This isn’t about proving solar works in theory; it’s about proving it works in the rough-and-tumble reality of commercial shipping.
The trial, set to run for 12 to 18 months, will evaluate multiple photovoltaic (PV) module technologies, starting with Merlin Solar’s durable, flexible panels. These aren’t your average rooftop solar panels. Merlin’s glass and non-glass options are built to withstand harsh marine environments, offering a blend of reliability and adaptability. The panels’ lightweight, peel-and-stick design could be a game-changer for ship integrations, making it easier to retrofit existing vessels and scale deployments.
Eco Marine Power’s Aquarius Marine Solar Power system is more than just solar panels on a deck. It’s a comprehensive solution that includes specially designed mounting frames and an upgraded performance management system. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. The trial will test different configurations and technologies, gathering data to refine the system for broader adoption. The company’s collaboration with Aries Marine ensures the installation is tailored to the vessel’s operational demands, balancing performance with practicality.
Greg Atkinson, President and Founder of Eco Marine Power, underscores the strategic importance of this trial: “We are excited to announce the latest deployment of our ship solar power solution, now enhanced with an upgraded performance management system. We also welcome the participation of Merlin Solar in this important project, which advances the evaluation of zero-emission power technologies for ships.”
This trial could reshape how the industry views solar power as a viable, scalable solution. If successful, it could accelerate the adoption of solar technology across commercial fleets, particularly in regions with high solar irradiance. The data collected will be invaluable for regulators, shipowners, and technology providers, offering a clear roadmap for integrating solar power into maritime operations.
Bob Brainard, Chief Product Officer and Founder of Merlin Solar Technologies, highlights the broader implications: “Merlin Solar is proud to participate in this evaluation, bringing over a decade of proven marine solar experience to the cargo shipping industry. Our panels have delivered reliable, continuous performance in a variety of marine applications, from recreational vessels to defence platforms. This collaboration represents an important step in supporting the maritime sector’s shift toward cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions.”
The trial also raises questions about the future of ship design. As solar technology becomes more integrated, will new vessels be built with solar-ready structures? How will solar power interact with other renewable energy sources, such as wind and hydrogen? The answers to these questions will shape the next generation of green shipping.
Eco Marine Power’s trial is a bold step toward a cleaner maritime industry. It’s not just about reducing emissions—it’s about proving that renewable energy can be a practical, reliable part of commercial shipping. The results of this trial could set the stage for a solar-powered revolution at sea.