Sunreef Yachts has introduced Solar Skin 3.0, the latest version of its integrated solar power system.
Building on the company’s earlier developments, the updated system is designed to provide a more efficient energy solution and support efforts to reduce the environmental impact of its vessels.
According to Sunreef, the previous generation, Solar Skin 2.0, achieved an efficiency of 24.8% and was noted for its thermal stability—operating at temperatures above 100°C and remaining compatible with dark hull finishes. It also demonstrated resistance to microcracking, having undergone durability testing across 20,000 load cycles, and featured RFID chips embedded in each panel to support diagnostics and maintenance.
The newly launched Solar Skin 3.0 adds real-time performance optimisation through the use of advanced algorithms. These allow the system to adjust electrical output dynamically, particularly in areas affected by shading from sails or rigging.
The layout of the solar panels was developed using machine learning techniques to optimise placement based on real-world usage patterns, aiming to maximise overall efficiency. In addition, the bimini areas of Sunreef’s latest catamarans are now equipped with photovoltaic cells specifically designed to perform better in shaded conditions, helping to improve energy yield even when lighting is less than ideal.
