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
Alternative Energy Course for Ships
This course offers you a comprehensive overview of the transition to more sustainable shipping. Discover how new technologies are transforming the maritime industry and learn to implement innovative solutions to reduce your…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts4 January
Places20 / 20
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Programme overview
What is the Alternative Energy Course for Ships?
The Alternative Energies on Ships course
This course offers you a comprehensive overview of the transition to more sustainable shipping. Discover how new technologies are transforming the maritime industry and learn to implement innovative solutions to reduce your carbon footprint. This program explores everything from solar and wind energy to biofuels and hydrogen, analyzing their viability and application in different types of vessels. Prepare yourself to lead the change towards a greener future in the maritime sector.
Differential Advantages
- Real-world case studies: Study examples of ships that are already successfully using alternative energy sources.
- Technology assessment: Compare the advantages and disadvantages of each type of renewable energy.
- Regulations and standards: Learn about the laws that promote the adoption of clean energy in maritime transport.
- ROI calculation: Learn how to determine the profitability of investing in alternative energy systems.
- Networking: Connect with experts and professionals in the sector committed to sustainability.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
08-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Mastery of Clean Technologies: Learn about wind, solar, and hydrogen systems applied to naval propulsion and electrification.
- Emissions Reduction: Implement strategies to minimize the carbon footprint and comply with maritime environmental regulations.
- Energy Efficiency: Optimize the consumption and rangement of vessels through the use of renewable energy sources.
- Regulations and Safety: Understand the regulations and safety standards for the implementation of alternative energies in the naval sector.
- Case Studies: Analyze practical and real-world examples of the implementation of alternative energies in different types of ships.
- Prepare for a sustainable future in the maritime industry and become an expert in renewable energies applied to navigation.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Fundamentals of alternative energies, energy efficiency and sustainable transition in boats
- Concept of alternative energies in boats and differences between renewable energy, clean propulsion, auxiliary generation and hybrid systems
- Main Sources: Solar Photovoltaic, Wind, Hydrogen, Batteries, Hydrogen, Biofuels and Port Connection
- On-board applications: propulsion, hotel services, lighting, refrigeration, navigation, communications, pumps and auxiliary equipment
- Relationship between energy consumption, autonomy, weight, available space, navigation profile and operational sustainability
- Advantages, limitations and risks of adopting alternative energies in recreational, tourist and service boats
02
Solar, wind and hydrogeneration applied to boats
- Rigid, flexible and semi-flexible solar panels, MPPT regulators, location, shadows, production and maintenance in the marine environment
- Small marine wind turbines, wind resource, noise, vibration, corrosion, assembly and compatibility with on-board operation
- Hydrogenerators, generation by drag, use in sailing, performance, added strength and efficient use conditions
- Integration of renewable sources with battery banks, chargers, inverters, electrical distribution and monitoring systems
- Comparison between solar, wind and hydraulic generation according to route, climate, type of ship, consumption and navigation regime
03
Batteries, electric propulsion, hybrid systems and energy management on board
- Battery types: Lead-acid, AGM, Gel, Lithium, LFP and criteria for capacity, safety, weight, shelf life and cost
- Electric propulsion, motors, controllers, inverters, chargers, refrigeration, autonomy and operational limitations
- Diesel-electric hybrid systems, auxiliary generators, smart alternators, Shore Power and combined operating modes
- Energy management through monitors, BMS, load distribution, consumption priorities and protection against deep discharge
- Basic sizing of generation, storage, daily demand, consumption spikes and navigation scenarios or anchoring
04
Alternative fuels, hydrogen, biofuels and emerging technologies
- Hydrogen on board, fuel cells, storage, ventilation, safety, autonomy and initial applications
- Biofuels, HVO, biodiesel, compatible mixtures, fuel quality, maintenance and emission reduction
- Methanol, ammonia and synthetic fuels as emerging alternatives in the maritime sector
- Technical challenges: availability, supply infrastructure, cost, engine compatibility, regulations and operational safety
- Comparative evaluation between alternative fuels and electrification according to scale, autonomy, power and type of operation
05
Applied project of alternative energies in boats
- Case definition: sailboat, boat, catamaran, small yacht, tourist boat, service boat or autonomous auxiliary system
- Consumption diagnosis, navigation profile, available space, existing batteries, charging sources, energy restrictions and targets
- Solution design with solar energy, wind, hydro generation, batteries, electric propulsion, Shore Power or hybrid system
- Preparation of basic sizing with expected generation, demand, storage, autonomy, security and use scenarios
- Development of the installation plan, maintenance, economic evaluation, reduction of emissions and continuous improvement
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 update their knowledge of propulsion systems and sustainable energy generation for the maritime industry.Engineering officers and technical personnel interested in the operation and maintenance of alternative energy technologies on board ships.Shipowners and fleet managers exploring the implementation of clean energy solutions to reduce operating costs and
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 integrating alternative energies into vessels.
- 02Design optimized energy management and storage systems for vessels with alternative energy sources.
- 03Implement and optimize hybrid or fully electric propulsion systems in vessels.
- 04Develop specific safety and maintenance protocols for alternative energy systems in the maritime environment.
- 05Integrate renewable energy sources (solar, wind, etc.) into auxiliary power systems of ships.
- 06To train professionals skilled in the installation, operation and maintenance of alternative energy systems on ships.
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Alternative Energy Systems Maintenance Technician for Ships: Inspection, repair, and maintenance of wind, solar, hydrogen, and other energy systems.
02Alternative Energy Systems Designer/Installer for Ships: Design and installation of renewable energy systems adapted to the energy needs of different types of vessels.
03Energy Consultant for the Naval Sector: Advising shipping companies and shipyards on the integration of alternative energies to reduce their carbon footprint and optimize energy consumption.
04Marine Renewable Energy Project Manager: Planning, coordination, and supervision of alternative energy implementation projects in ports and on ships.
05Researcher/Developer of New Technologies in Marine Alternative Energies: Participation in research projects to improve the efficiency and viability of renewable energies in the maritime environment.
06Marine Energy Regulatory Compliance Inspector: Ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards related to the installation and operation of alternative energy systems on ships.
07Sales and Marketing of Alternative Energy Solutions for Ships: Promote and sell renewable energy systems and services to companies in the maritime sector.
08Operator/Manager of Green Hydrogen Production Plants for the Maritime Sector: Oversee the production and distribution of hydrogen as an alternative fuel for ships.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
Solar, wind, nuclear, or electrical energy (batteries).
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.
Green hydrogen, because it offers high energy density, allowing long voyages without refueling, and its only byproduct is water, minimizing the environmental impact of maritime transport.
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, Naval or similar), Environmental Sciences, or advanced vocational training in technical areas; or demonstrable professional experience in the naval or energy sector.Prior Knowledge:Basic knowledge of physics, electricity, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics; Desirable familiarity with naval systems and energy efficiency concepts.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of qualifications/certificates (if applicable), ID/Passport, letter of interest explaining the motivation for undertakin
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Frequently Asked Questions
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