The Innovations

Solar energy is the primary source of energy for our laboratory vessel. This energy is converted into electricity, then stored on board. How have photovoltaic technologies evolved over the last 6 years? Explanations with Luc Bourserie, onboard systems engineer.

During long navigations, energy is precious and every kWh counts to allow our crew to reach their destination. Slowing down our average speed is often the best way to save energy and extend our autonomy.

Energy Observer's first transpacific journey has ended after 25 days at sea with changing but generally favourable weather conditions.

The weather conditions were quite challenging for the beginning of our very first transpacific!

Only consume what we are capable to producing, and no more than what nature can give us: that's what the boat and crew manage to do on a daily basis!

The solar panel park of Energy Observer has undergone a revamp with the exploitation of numerous surfaces, even reduced ones.

Energy Observer has been examined with a fine-tooth comb. Every nook of its decks, floats and infrastructure is now fitted with custom photovoltaic panels. A technical conundrum for Hugo Devedeux, on-board engineer who is in charge of the solar component of the experimental catamaran optimization project.

Solar energy is the primary source of energy production aboard the Energy Observer. The team enjoyed optimal sunshine whilst navigating in the Mediterranean where they fully exploited the potential of the photovoltaic panels covering the hulls, nacelle and wings of the craft.

Energy Observer has just completed the second chapter of its Odyssey: the Mediterranean Sea.

Already 10,326 nautical miles covered by Energy Observer. Having set out from Saint-Malo in June 2017, the first hydrogen vessel around the world has made 33 stopovers and has been to 14 countries, navigating in France and the Mediterranean with no emissions of greenhouse gases or fine particles.

Island territories are the best energy-autonomy laboratories. Cut off from the continental grid, and often only having access to reduced infrastructures, they have to handle the variations in electrical production and demand and adapt to the intermittent availability of renewable energies.

Thierry Carlin, CEO of Marine Tech, has invented Helio, a pragmatic and sustainable system that produces drinking water from all types of water deemed unsafe to drink, anywhere in the world and at minimal cost.