From Renewable Energy Focus  ,  12/07/10  ,  


The PlanetSolar composite catamaran will aim to circumnavigate the globe using solar power alone.

The PlanetSolar catamaran is fitted with more than 500 m2 of solar modules. One of the biggest challenges of the project has been to store enough solar energy so that the vessel can maintain its progress even in darkness. To achieve this, use has been made of the latest lithium-ion batteries, which weigh around 11 tonnes in total.

To minimise consumption of energy, it was necessary to save as much weight as possible in the boat structures by employing modern lightweight construction technology. Through the use of carbon fibre composite in the hull structure, the requirements for excellent mechanical properties combined with very low weight were successfully met.

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July 14, 2010