FEADSHIP CONCEPT C Optimized engine room Power generation Additional electrical power will be generated by a pair of narrow wave-actuated fins that fold out horizontally from the hull, aft of the anchors. The fins are connected to permanent magnet rotors that supply DC electrical energy directly to the micro-DC grid on board. Estimates are that in a 1m sea, energy generated by their movement will meet one-third of C’s hotel load. In addition, this would reduce the pitch motions by around 20% and the total resistance through the water by 3-4%. Both the centerline propeller and thruster are electric and draw power from a DC electrical grid supplied entirely by fuel cells running on methanol from renewable sources. Fuel cells will provide electrical power without vibration or harmful emissions. Although the initial cost is still higher than internal combustion generators, they return the capital investment in only a few years due to increased efficiency. They are also compact, reducing the space of the ‘engine’ compartment so that it easily fits on one deck. Efficient design The highly efficient system of a centerline propeller with an azimuthing thruster behind allowed the vessel’s naval architects to fashion a hull shape with an optimized, upswept afterbody for less turbulence and a quieter wake. Proven systems The Concept C hull shape and fully electric propulsion system with in-line contra-rotating propellers is an evolution of Feadship’s Breathe concept first proposed in 2010. A similar system was installed on Feadship Savannah, launched in 2015, which has accrued thousands of open-ocean kilometers. 6 // January 2025 // ElectricHybridMarineTechnology.com
Electric & Hybrid Marine Technology International January 2025: Page 6
