DOST Launches Eco-Friendly Electric Boat

With continuouly rising cost of fuel, it comes as no surprise that electric boats are gaining popularity worldwide. In light of this trend, the collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Energy (DOE), and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to create the Efficient and Sustainable Solar-Assisted Plug-In Electric Boat (SESSY E-Boat) is a notable development. 

The P19 million project, recently unveiled at the Manila Yacht Club, was developed by researchers from Mapua University and co-funded by the DOST, DOE, and MARINA. 

Enrico Paringit, director of the DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), said the boat is remarkably efficient for its size and design. Capable of running for two hours after a six-hour charge, it achieves speeds of up to eight nautical miles per hour and also features a quiet motor.

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With the use of its solar panels, the e-boat can run for an extra two hours or more, provided that there is a continuous supply of solar energy, said PCIEERD. 

Engr. Febus Reidj Cruz, Project Leader of SESSY, said they ensured that the design was not only robust but also eco-friendly. They achieved this by selecting materials that comply with safety standards, collaborating with a MARINA-certified naval architect to guarantee the safety of the design, and integrating a locally developed Automatic Identification System (AIS). This system allows for the tracking and monitoring of the electric boat's location while at sea. 

Cruz said the SESSY will be used to ferry passengers across various islands in the Philippines for tourism purposes. The boat can accommodate 10 passengers and two crew, but Paringit said the seats could also be reconfigured for certain purposes, such as diving or snorkelling.