Helios sets a new world record
NewsThe Helios set a Guinness World Record for 312 solar panels, reducing CO2 emissions by 90 tonnes annually in resource-saving operations.
On 6 September, the dry bulk vessel Helios, which operates for HGK Shipping, set a new record, with the acknowledgement by the Guinness World Records. The vessel features 312 solar panels installed by the clean-tech start-up, Wattlab, which are considered unique globally for inland waterway vessels.
The company gave its approval to the sustainable design of the Helios during the World Port Days at an event held in the centre of Rotterdam, which was attended by the key project partners, HGK Shipping, Blommaert and Wattlab, as well as city dignitaries.
The solar module structure supports resource-saving onboard operations by saving as much as 90 tonnes of CO2 annually.
The vessel is 135 metres long and 11.45 metres wide, providing a hold space measuring 5,570 m3 enabling it to ship, for example, rapeseed, which HGK Shipping transports for the world’s leading food and agricultural group, ADM.
Twenty-seven so-called hatch covers equipped with solar panels and made by the Blommaert company span the cargo hold. They generate as much as 90 MWh of electricity annually and the power is available for the onboard operations on the Helios. The dry cargo vessel can therefore save up to 90 tonnes of carbon dioxide every year.
Carl Saville, the official representative of Guinness World Records Limited, which awards the coveted certificates, confirmed the new solar panel world record during the World Port Days in the Dutch port city. Chantal Zeegers, for her part an alderperson in the local community, attended the award ceremony on behalf of the city of Rotterdam.
Aerial shot of the Helios with the solar module structure awarded by Guinness World Records Limited. © Maritime Filming Group
Group photo as part of the award ceremony (left to right): Carl Saville (Guinness Official), Tom Blommaert (CEO Blommaert), Anja Grimske-Fuchs (Manager Operation, Execution & Logistics Oilseeds ADM), Steffen Bauer (CEO HGK Shipping), Chantal Zeegers (Alderman Municipality of Rotterdam), David Kester (Electrical Engineer Wattlab), Bo Salet (CEO Wattlab). © Rhalda Jansen Fotografie of #rhaldajansnenfotografie on Instagram