The Plomp family, a long-established shipping family, has taken a significant step toward sustainable shipping with their dry bulk goods inland ship, the MS Initium.
Blommaert Aluminium Constructions installed 11 aluminium solar hatch covers with 132 integrated solar panels. They now have a total of 34 kWp on board. Keep reading to discover more about why they chose to add additional solar panels to their ship.
MS Initium: saving on energy costs, with minimal downtime
Commissioned by Dutch inland shipping company, Scheepvaartbedrijf Initium BV, we started designing and producing their made-to-order hatch covers with integrated solar panels in August 2024. We ultimately decided on 11 solar hatch covers, Frysian-style type 8600/3670/3 with trio panels, that had 312 integrated solar panels. A significant amount that generates up to 34 kWh in energy.
After careful planning and consideration for their schedule, we installed the solar hatch covers in less than 2 weeks. Ensuring the dry bulk ship could quickly return to its regular operations, minimizing disruption and maximizing efficiency. For shipowners like Mark Plomp, captain of MS Initium, this swift installation is crucial, as it allows them to continue their shipping schedule with minimal interruption while still benefiting from cutting-edge, sustainable technology.
Combined with their existing solar panels on their wheelhouse roof and a robust energy storage system, this inland ship – which primarily transports dry cargo across major European waterways like the Rhine and Moselle – is now setting a new standard in sustainable shipping.
Benefits of installing solar hatch covers for MS Initium
The installation of solar hatches on MS Initium brings a wide range of benefits that go beyond environmental impact. From operational efficiency to economic savings, this innovative project provides both immediate and long-term advantages.
- No heavy shore power cables & generator noise: solar energy is quiet and charges while you sail.
- Less fuel costs: solar energy reduces the ship’s fuel needs or generator needs.
- Lower generator usage: With solar power handling much of the ship’s energy demands, the generator runs less frequently, saving on maintenance and fuel. Extra benefit? Less noise!
- No more reliance on shore power: The ship can now function independently at ports without needing to connect to external power grids.
- Minimal downtime: at Blommaert we reduce your stationary time to a minimum.
In addition, MS Initium takes advantage of Dutch governmental subsidies for renewable energy installations. Thanks to programs like the Energy Investment Allowance (EIA) and Small-scale Investment Allowance (KIA), MS Initium is eligible for up to 40% off the cost of the solar hatches.
Technical specifications
MS Initium
- Length of ship: 105 metres
- 11 Frisian-style hatch covers, Type FRK 8600/3670/3 trio panels
- Power: 34 kWp
- Duration of installation: 1,5 weeks
Currently, in October 2024, de energy demand on the MS Initium is about 115 kWh per day, with a minimum of 3 kWh and max. of 17 kWh. It is estimated that during the summer months, the MS Initium can cover a full day without having to tap into additional wall power or a generator.
Interested in upgrading your inland shipping vessel?
The solar hatch installation on MS Initium is a shining of how solar hatches are transforming the future of inland shipping. With reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions, and increased operational efficiency, the MS Initium vessel is ready for a sustainable, quieter and more cost-efficient future. We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mark Plomp, Scheepvaartbedrijf Initium BV, and his family for their trust throughout this project. We wish the MS Initium and its crew safe travels! If you’re considering upgrading your existing hatch covers with integrated solar panels, now is the perfect time to take the leap. Get in touch with us and experience the same incredible benefits as MS Initium.
