Simulations of Photovoltaic Systems on Different Types of Ships in Sweden: Solar Energy Generation, Comparison to Energy Consumption, and Reduction of CO2 Emission

ABSTRACT Today, ships are largely powered by fossil fuels, and it is therefore important to find new ways to power ships due to the negative environmental effects that the emissions from the fossil fuels give rise to. In this work, we have investigated the potential of using solar cells on different types of ships, to see how it reduces energy consumption and emissions of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ). The simulated values for the solar energy have been compared with the ships’ energy consumption to estimate how much the emissions from the ships could be reduced with on‐board solar energy installations. From the reduction in fuel consumption, we have also estimated the fuel cost reductions and an approximate payback time for the solar cell system. We have also made practical measurements of solar radiation in a marine environment, and specifically investigated how light reflections against the water surface can contribute to the energy. How light and flexible thin‐film roof‐top solar cells would cope with the marine environment was also investigated. The results suggest that solar cells can be an important complement in shipping to reduce fuel consumption and emissions of CO 2 .