[L’industrie c’est fou] This yacht relies on solar and hydrogen to not emit CO2

If it will be as flashy as the yachts that can be seen on the marinas of the south of France, this 88-meter-long boat will have another advantage: it should not generate greenhouse gas emissions during the use phase. The Pegasus, which is only at the project stage, would be the first “superyacht” built thanks to 3D printing, powered by solar energy and hydrogen and with infinite autonomy. Thus, the electricity produced thanks to the solar panels fixed on a large part of the surface of the ship will be used to convert sea water into hydrogen, which can be stored for a longer period. Fuel cells on board will convert it to electricity stored in short term in lithium-ion batteries.

The innovations planned on the yacht. © Joseph Forakis

An aesthetic designed to blend into the oceans

Designer Jozeph Forakis’ desire to design a yacht with low environmental impact does not seem to stop at its energy supply. It also takes into account the visual aspect of the boat, whose metallic finish of the hull allows it to blend in with the colors and movements of the water. The structure of the upper part of the boat is made of photovoltaic glass which in turn reflects the clouds and the sky. The interest of robotic 3D printing is due to a solid and light structure that requires less energy, materials and space than a conventional construction… Even if no figures on the expected gains in terms of energy sobriety is not advanced.

View from inside the ship. © Strutturaleggera / Jozeph Forakis

Inside, guests will discover a sleek and futuristic design dominated by a plant structure that will extend over four levels and will be surrounded by a spiral staircase. This hydroponic garden (a growing system without soil) will grow fresh fruits and vegetables and purify the air. On the upper floor, there will be a spacious suite and its private terrace. A swimming pool with transparent walls located at the front of the yacht will delight owners. Closed, it will serve as a landing platform for helicopters… Enough to sweep away the “zero emission” promise of the project.

If we do not know its price, this yacht will certainly only be accessible to a tiny part of the population. Failing to change their habits, the innovations on board this ship will still perhaps have the merit of reducing a (small) bit the colossal carbon footprint of the greatest fortunes of this world. In a study published at the end of January, the World inequality lab recalls that the richest 10% accounted for nearly 48% of global CO2 emissions in 2019. The richest 1% category alone accounts for nearly 17% of carbon emissions across the planet. Far, very far ahead of the poorest 50%, who represent only 12% of global emissions.

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