Solar & Wind Assisted Vessels (including cargo vessels)

I've posted on a somewhat similar subject before, but this recent press release for solar/sail assisted cargo vessels desired a new subject thread.

Here is what I posted before:
http://www.boatdesign.net/forums/boat-design/new-age-trawler-motorsailer-kite-assisted-poweryacht-20319.html
...making use of this big ship technology being worked on by:
SkySails

Here is another recent notice:
Back to the future? Solar and wind sails for cargo ships

Back to the future for a new world of sailing ships? Solar Sailor, an Australian company specialising in renewable energy technologies, is negotiating to install its solar and wind power systems on a massive dry cargo ship that could be used to haul iron ore from Australia to China.


'Solar sails on tanker - the concept'


The equipment is likely to be similar - but on a more massive scale - to the zero-emission systems the company has installed on four dual-fuel passenger ferries operated by the Hong Kong Jockey Club.


'Solar Albatross' (pictured) is a 24 meter 100 passenger carrying catamaran ferry with its stow-able SolarSails.

The boat service is between the Hong Kong Jockey Club's Kai Sai Chau Golf Club, ferrying golf club patrons to and from their three island based 18 hole courses off Hong Kong Island.

...more HERE
http://www.sail-world.com/cruising/index.cfm?nid=88054&rid=11

 

very cool Brian

 

Very interesting, Brian.
I look forward to seeing reports on the long-term fuel savings and whether it covers the
installment costs, and recurring maintenance costs.

 

yup thats always the rub with any active solar system