Dutch solar innovator Wattlab has delivered a breakthrough energy system for HGK Shipping’s cargo vessel Blue Marlin, marking a major step forward in sustainable inland shipping.
Equipped with 192 solar panels, the vessel is the first of its kind capable of hybrid propulsion using solar power, supplying energy to both onboard systems and high-voltage propulsion.
HGK Shipping, which operates a fleet of 350 vessels and transports around 43 million tonnes annually, is regarded as a leading force in European inland shipping. Wattlab, also active in seagoing maritime projects, brings extensive experience to this pioneering effort.
This partnership previously resulted in the record-breaking MS Helios, which boasts 312 solar panels and was recognised by The Guinness Book of Records in 2024. However, Blue Marlin features a more advanced, fully integrated system that connects to both low-voltage and high-voltage systems—unlike the Helios, which only powered hotel services.
The Blue Marlin delivers up to 35kW in optimal conditions and uses four diesel generators alongside its solar array. Thanks to automated energy management, the vessel can achieve peak shaving, minimizing generator use during power surges.
When lightly loaded and sailing downstream, it may even operate on solar energy alone for limited periods, which is a first in inland shipping.
HGK’s Director of Ship Management, Tim Gödde, considers the vessel a leap forward in making already low-emission inland shipping even more sustainable.
Wattlab’s co-founder David Kester regards the integrated propulsion system as a technical milestone in maritime solar engineering.
Installation of the solar system was completed at De Gerlien van Tiem shipyard in collaboration with Blommaert Aluminium and Van Tiem Electro. As a new-build vessel, the process took roughly one week, with commissioning shortly thereafter.
Wattlab estimates that retrofitting a similar-sized ship would involve no more than one week of downtime, making the technology not only innovative but logistically viable for future applications.
