Solar power takes to the water

08 October, 2007

The new Serpentine Solar Shuttle operated by BlueBird Boats in London’s Hyde Park is entirely powered by solar energy. On the canopy of this 14.3 m catamaran, which can carry 40 passengers, are solar cells that can generate up to 2 kW of power and which are used to charge batteries. The batteries supply two 3-phase drives via an inverter system. These drives have a total output of 20 kW, enabling the boat to reach 15 km/h. The monitoring and control system was supplied by Moeller Electric from its MFD-Titan range. It provides key information about the vessel’s operational status and has an intuitive interface for the operator to adjust operational parameters. Used with the MFD-Titan units is an Easy800 intelligent control relay that forms the heart of the boat’s control system. It controls the hydraulic pumps for the port and starboard rudders, the fans for the battery compartment, heating and backlighting for the buttons on the control console.

Related links:

BCIA welcomes tougher commercial building energy standards but calls for greater ambition across the wider sector

The Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) has welcomed the government’s confirmation that privately rented non-domestic buildings over 1,000 square metres in England and Wales will be expected to achieve a minimum EPC B rating by 2031, describing the move as an important step forward in improving the energy performance of the UK’s commercial building stock.

GOLDBECK commits to three-year schools partnership to inspire Cardiff’s future construction talent

GOLDBECK has launched a new long-term education initiative in Cardiff, committing to support three local primary schools as part of a programme designed to introduce young children to enterprise, careers and the wider world of construction.

Calendar

Submit event

Tweets by MBS_magazine