Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Course on Principles of Marine Solar Energy
Introduces you to the future of renewable energy in the maritime sector. Learn to design, implement, and maintain photovoltaic systems on vessels, from yachts to large ships. Master the key concepts of naval electrification…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts28 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
Prior Knowledge Assessment
These are the skills this programme builds. Tick the ones you already have and we will tell you which part of the syllabus is really for you.
Your profile
Tick what you already know to see your result.
Programme overview
What is the Course on Principles of Marine Solar Energy?
The Marine Solar Energy Principles Course
Introduces you to the future of renewable energy in the maritime sector. Learn to design, implement, and maintain photovoltaic systems on vessels, from yachts to large ships. Master the key concepts of naval electrification, energy storage, and solar panel integration, optimizing efficiency and reducing the carbon footprint of maritime operations. This program prepares you for a booming job market driven by sustainability and technological innovation.
Differential Advantages
- Case Studies: Analysis of real-world projects and simulation of solar installations on different types of vessels.
- Specialized Software: Use of design and simulation tools to optimize system performance.
- Industry Connections: Access to experts and leading companies in the marine solar energy sector.
- Professional Certification: Obtain a recognized certificate that validates your knowledge and skills.
- Flexibility: Study at your own pace with our online platform, accessible 24/7.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
09-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Solid Foundations: Learn the key principles of solar energy applied to the marine environment.
- Practical Applications: Discover how to implement solar energy solutions on vessels and in ports.
- Efficiency and Sustainability: Maximize energy performance and reduce environmental impact in the maritime sector.
- Case Studies: Analyze real-world examples of successful marine solar energy adoption.
- Regulations and Safety: Understand the regulations and best practices for safe and efficient installation.
- Drive innovation and sustainability in the maritime industry with solar energy.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Fundamentals of maritime solar energy, photovoltaic generation and applications on board
- Concept of maritime solar energy and differences between solar, shipped, port and freelancers
- Basic principles of solar radiation, photovoltaic conversion, voltage, current, power, efficiency and energy production
- Boat applications: Battery charging, lighting, electronics, pumps, refrigeration, communications and auxiliary services
- Peculiarities of the marine environment: Salinity, humidity, vibration, movement, shadow, corrosion and variable solar exposure
- Advantages, limitations and risks of solar energy in navigation, anchoring, port and remote operations
02
Solar components, batteries, regulators and electrical integration in boats
- Rigid, flexible, semi-flexible, monocrystalline, polycrystalline and nautical selection criteria
- PWM and MPPT controllers, charge control, efficiency, compatibility and protection of batteries
- Lead-acid, AGM, Gel, Lithium and Basic Capacity, Life Cycle, Weight and Safety Criteria
- Wiring, fuses, disconnectors, connectors, protections, pipes and good practices in the marine environment
- Inverters, DC-DC converters, battery monitors and distribution to direct or alternating current consumption
03
Basic sizing, consumption, autonomy and energy planning on board
- Identification of electrical consumption - navigation, lighting, refrigeration, pumps, communications, comfort and auxiliary equipment
- Basic calculation of daily demand, installed power, battery capacity, solar hours and safety margin
- Shadow Influence, Orientation, Tilt, Panel Location, Weather, Station and Navigation Profile
- Energy balance between solar generation, storage, consumption, load from motor, port charger and other sources
- Autonomy scenarios for coastal navigation, anchoring, crossing, recreational use and service boats
04
Installation, assembly, electrical safety and maintenance of maritime solar systems
- Location of panels in deck, bimini, hardtop, handrails, supports, arches, cabin and surfaces available
- Mechanical fixing, ventilation, cable passage, sealing, UV protection, sealing and prevention of leaks
- Electrical safety during installation: polarity, disconnection, fuses, short circuits, cable sections and watertight connections
- Start-up, Voltage Verification, Current, Load, Regulator Operation and Monitor Reading
- Preventive maintenance: panel cleaning, connector checking, corrosion, fastening, wiring and battery status
05
Applied Maritime Solar Energy Project
- Case definition: sailboat, boat, catamaran, small yacht, auxiliary boat, buoy, marine or autonomous nautical installation
- Diagnosis of consumptions, existing batteries, available space, solar conditions, use profile and autonomy needs
- Solar system design with panels, regulator, batteries, protections, wiring, location and connection scheme
- Preparation of the calculation of generation, demand, autonomy, margin of safety and scenarios of maritime use
- Development of the installation plan, maintenance, fault diagnosis, electrical safety and energy optimisation
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Naval and marine engineers seeking to integrate renewable energy into ship design and operation.Naval architects and designers interested in optimizing energy efficiency through solar power.Vessel owners and operators wishing to reduce costs and minimize their environmental impact through solar solutions.Technicians and maintenance personnel requiring specialized training in the installation
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of offshore solar projects
- 02Understand and apply the fundamental principles of solar energy conversion in marine environments
- 03Design energy storage systems tailored to the specific demands of maritime applications
- 04Integrating marine solar systems into existing port infrastructure and vessels
- 05To efficiently manage and maintain offshore solar installations, optimizing their performance and lifespan
- 06Comply with maritime safety regulations and standards when implementing solar technologies
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Marine Solar System Installation and Maintenance Technician: Installation, repair, and maintenance of solar panels and energy storage systems on vessels and offshore platforms.
02Energy Consultant for the Maritime Sector: Advising on the implementation of solar energy solutions to reduce costs and emissions on vessels and in ports.
03Marine Solar Energy System Designer: Design and development of solar systems adapted to the specific needs of different types of vessels and marine applications.
04Marketing and Sales of Solar Equipment for the Maritime Sector: Sale and distribution of solar panels, inverters, batteries, and other components for marine applications.
05Research and Development of New Marine Solar Technologies: Participation in research projects to improve the efficiency and durability of solar systems in marine environments.
06Vessel Solar Energy System Operator: Operation and monitoring of solar systems installed on vessels to ensure their optimal performance.
07Marine Solar Systems Inspector: Inspection and certification of solar systems installed on vessels to ensure compliance with safety and quality regulations.
08Marine Solar Energy Training and Education: Instructor or trainer in courses and workshops on the installation, maintenance, and operation of solar systems in the maritime sector.
09```
Questions
Entry Requirements
The sun.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
The sun.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate Degree in Engineering (Energy, Mechanical, Electrical, or Naval), Marine Sciences, or a related field; or demonstrable professional experience in renewable energy or the maritime sector.Prior Knowledge:Basic knowledge of physics (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics), electricity, and renewable energy. Familiarity with the maritime environment is desirable.Language Proficiency:Spanish (native or C1 level). Technical English (B2) for understanding documentation and regulations.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of academi
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Leave your details and admissions will write back. If you already know this is the one, go straight to the application and pay in the same session.