Hydro generation potential on board sailing super yachts

Abstract

In response to the leading narrative of increasing sustainability in the yachting sector, a research collaboration is started between the Delft University of Technology and Dykstra Naval Architects to examine the potential use of hydro generation on board sailing superyachts. By harvesting energy from the water flow when under sail, diesel generator use can be limited, reducing overall emissions. Currently, it is not yet possible to quantify the impact of a chosen hydro generation system on the overall design during the early stages of yacht design. To assess the correct balance between the inevitable increase in system weight and size relative to, for example, emission reduction. To allow for this, a novel method is developed, presenting the designer with the opportunity to explore various hydro generation systems quickly. With the ability to complete this in an early design stage, more opportunities for hydro generation remain, and the need for a feasibility study for hydro generation is removed. In this thesis, the developed method is described, and results are presented that provide insight into its applicability. The design method considers the impact of six variables that influence hydro generation. The first three variations concern size and include the propeller diameter, battery capacity, and sail area. The remaining considerations relate to operational and design choices and include decisions on energy consumption, fixed or controllable pitch propellers, and generation in the first or third quadrant. A scenario for an ocean crossing with a sailing yacht aiming to limit fuel consumption demonstrates the influence of these considerations. The results presented in the thesis show that the method provides the basis for a later detailed design stage when an actual hydro generation system is implemented.