Blue Marlin Becomes World’s First Solar-Powered Inland Cargo Vessel
Blue Marlin Becomes World’s First Solar-Powered Inland Cargo Vessel
📰 In News: Blue Marlin becomes World’s First Solar-Powered Inland Cargo Vessel
Dutch company Wattlab and Germany’s HGK Shipping unveiled the world’s first hybrid inland cargo vessel powered by solar energy, named Blue Marlin.
Equipped with 192 solar panels powering both onboard systems and the high-voltage propulsion system — first time solar energy is used directly for movement in inland shipping.
HGK Shipping operates 350 vessels and transports ~43 million tonnes of goods annually across Europe.
In comparison, MS Helios (also HGK Shipping) had 312 panels but powered only low-voltage onboard systems, not propulsion.
Blue Marlin’s system is fully integrated, supports both low and high-voltage systems → a technical milestone in inland shipping.
Produces up to 35 kW under optimal sunlight, works with four diesel generators for peak shaving (using solar + batteries to reduce extra generator use).
Uses automated energy management → distributes power efficiently and reduces fuel use.
When lightly loaded & sailing downstream, it may run entirely on solar power for short periods — a first in inland shipping history.
