Eco Marine Power, a company based in Fukuoka, Japan, develops and markets environmentally friendly power and propulsion systems for ships and other vessels. The company’s technologies use wind, solar and electric power to develop more energy efficient vessels with smaller carbon footprints.
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Founded in July 2010 in Fukuoka, Japan by Ohori Capital, Eco Marine Power aims to provide green power options for vessels and ships. The company is currently looking to develop a system that can be used on larger vessels such as bulk carriers and cruise liners.
Hybrid Marine Power
The company specializes in providing systems that draw electricity for powering vessels from more than one source. Hybrid marine power provided by the company's products combine wind and solar energy, biofuels and more environmental friendly diesel engines and generators. The company provides systems in two basic categories:
The company's Series Hybrid Marine Power system uses an electronic motor to send power to the driveshaft directly. It does not use a gearbox and so reduces energy consumption. It also allows for vessels to operate in all-electric mode, which greatly reduces noise levels, and to operate on only solar and wind power.
Their Parallel Hybrid Marine Power system combines an electric drive with a “traditional” diesel engine to help reduce fuel consumption, its carbon footprint and costs.
Aquarius Project
In July 2010, Eco Marine Power started a project to create a system for use in large vessels that utilizes wind power and solar energy. Being designed for installation on existing vessels, the system will require maintenance from ships’ crews. A prototype of the system, scheduled for release in early 2012, will be tested and evaluated on the ocean before receiving a full commercial release. The company announced in February 2011 that they would continue working on the project after completing a successful feasibility study.
Tonbo ship
In January 2011, the company unveiled a detailed design for its new Tonbo ship, with a 250-person carrying capacity, aimed at the tourist vessel market. The ship uses lithium batteries that are charged from solar panels on its roof, and also includes an onboard biofuel generator. The Tonbo’s solar panels allow the ship to travel in areas with bridges. The energy management system on the ship is designed to provide a healthy return on investment.
Partnerships
Eco Marine Power partners include KEI Systems Ltd., in which Eco Marine Power uses technologies supplied by KEI Systems for valves and computer systems within its vessels.
In partnership with Ohori Capital, Eco Marine Power is promoting environmentally friendly marine power solutions in Japan.