Safety is a critical aspect of any solar electric boat project. It can be categorized in two broad groups:
- Conventional boat safety – related to the boat structure and systems common to both diesel and solar electric boats. This includes the hull, superstructure, interiors, outfitting, auxiliary loads, and any generators.
- Electric propulsion safety – specific to solar electric boats. This covers the solar plant, battery system (including charging), power train, Power Management System (PMS) and Energy Management System.
Ensuring the safety of both categories is essential, but this article focuses on the second group – those unique to solar electric boats. This is where the role of the System architect becomes vital.
Who is a System Architect?
A system architect is a specialist responsible for engineering, assembling, and optimising all technical systems in this complex product so that they operate harmoniously. This role encompasses and goes beyond that of a system integrator adding responsibilities like requirements definition, system architecture, and optimisation.
Let’s us walk through the main responsibilities of a system architect in a solar electric boat project.
- Requirements definition
The propulsion power requirement is primarily driven by two factors: the vessel’s speed and its payload (passengers or cargo). By analysing operational needs, the system architect translates them into energy and power requirements. Factoring in usage patterns allows for calculating both the energy required between charges and the total energy demand.
- System architecture
In this phase, the energy sources (solar, wind, battery, fuel cell, or engine) are evaluated and their contributions to the energy mix are finalised. For propulsion, if not fully electric, hybrid options are considered – either series or parallel (on the same or independent shaft).
The electrical system topology is also defined at this stage: independent AC/DC for redundancy, common AC, or common DC bus systems.
- System design and Component selection
This stage involves selecting and sizing key components such as solar plant, battery bank, and propulsion motor. Compatibility across components in terms of voltage, current, communication protocols, and thermal behaviour must be ensured.
Performance simulations under various load conditions, sunlight levels, and duty cycles are carried out. Safety systems – structural fire protection, fire and gas detection, fire suppression, ventilation, and emergency stops – are incorporated into the design.
Compliance with applicable marine standards and rule requirements (classification society or statutory body) is also addressed here.
- Integration
This involves installing and connecting the full system: solar plant, battery bank, power train, control systems, and safety subsystems. Communication between components-using CAN, Modbus, or other protocols-is established, and user interfaces are integrated for operation and monitoring.
- Commissioning and Testing
Once installed, all systems are commissioned and tested for functionality and performance. This includes Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) and shop trials before installation, followed by dockside and sea trials. Training for operation and maintenance personnel is also conducted during this phase.
- System optimisation
Based on real-world data gathered during trials and early operations, the system is fine-tuned for improved efficiency, reduced losses and better inter-system coordination (e.g., MPPT, motor controller).
System maintenance planning, remote diagnostics, and software updates are all handled here.
Collaboration and Project Success
Throughout the project, the system architect work closely with the naval architect to optimise space, weight, and layout. They serve as the bridge between naval architecture and clean technology, ensuring the solar electric boat functions as an integrated, efficient system.
Ultimately, the system architect’s contribution determines the vessel’s performance, safety, reliability, and commercial viability.
Competency of a System Architect
The effectiveness of a system architect hinges on two key factors: expertise and experience. The best indicators of this are the number and diversity of successful boats delivered and in operation. When projects are handed over to inexperienced teams without such expertise, costly failures can result.
Case Studies of Failure (for Learning)
- Tamil Nadu Forest Department (2019):
A 24-passenger solar intended for Manimuthar Dam operations is now abandoned, reportedly lying as scrap. The ₹80 lakh investment was rendered wasted due to poor execution. [1]
2. Goa River Navigation Department (2022)
A 60-passenger solar ferry was inaugurated but never put to intended use. Valued at ₹3.9 crore, boat system was later deemed irreparable. The current minister called it a “failed attempt.” [2][3]
Conclusion
The system architect plays a pivotal role in the success of a solar electric boat project. Their ability to design, integrate, test, and optimize complex systems ensures that the vessel is safe, efficient, and future-ready. With the right expertise, this role helps transform clean marine transport from a technical possibility into a scalable, sustainable reality.
References
1 – “₹80 lakh solar-powered boat purchased just two years ago is now ‘dead’, The Hindu, 20 October 2022,https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/80-lakh-solar-powered-boat-purchased-just-two-years-ago-is-now-dead/article66035803.ece
2 – Goa’s Chorao-Panjim solar ferry baot in rough waters, Gomantak Times, 23 Jun 2024, https://www.gomantaktimes.com/opinion/goas-chorao-panjim-solar-ferryboat-in-rough-waters
3 – No plans to launch solar ferry boats in Goa, says minister, Economic Times, 16 Jul 2024, https://infra.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/urban-transportation/no-plans-to-launch-solar-ferry-boats-in-goa-says-minister/111769032
4 – Sandith Thandasherry, ‘Solar Electric Boats’, ETN Publishing, https://sandith.in/book-on-solar-electric-boats-2/
Sandith Thandasherry 