In a groundbreaking initiative that merges electric mobility with renewable energy, researchers at the Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA) are pioneering the use of solar-powered boats in the Amazon region. The project, which features the electric boat named Poraquê, is part of a broader movement to decarbonize transportation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas. Lead author Bruno Santana de Albuquerque, affiliated with UFPA’s Post-Graduate Program in Electrical Engineering, emphasizes the project’s potential, stating, “By integrating distributed energy resources with advanced monitoring systems, we are not only enhancing operational efficiency but also paving the way for sustainable transportation solutions in the Amazon.”
The study, published in the journal ‘Machines,’ highlights the significant advantages of utilizing solar energy for river transport. With Brazil boasting one of the cleanest electricity matrices globally—approximately 89% renewable—the transition from traditional internal combustion engines to electric-powered vessels represents a monumental shift. This innovative approach is particularly crucial in Brazil, where the transportation sector accounted for 33% of energy consumption in 2023.
The Poraquê boat is designed to operate using energy derived from both photovoltaic systems and energy storage solutions, which can be complemented by onshore solar resources. This integration allows for a significant reduction in operational costs compared to diesel-powered alternatives, with the project projected to avoid nearly 72 tons of CO2 emissions annually. “This project not only demonstrates the feasibility of renewable energy in transportation but also showcases how technology can enhance our energy management capabilities,” Albuquerque adds.
Digital twin technology plays a pivotal role in the project, allowing for real-time monitoring and predictive analytics to optimize the boat’s performance. This innovative approach ensures that the energy demands of the boat are met entirely through renewable sources, contributing to the overarching goal of sustainability. The successful implementation of this technology could serve as a model for similar projects worldwide, emphasizing the potential for scalability and replication in other regions.
As the Poraquê prepares to launch into real-world operations, the implications for the energy sector are profound. The integration of distributed energy resources with electric mobility not only supports environmental goals but also opens up new commercial opportunities in renewable energy markets. The research underscores the importance of innovation in addressing the challenges of energy consumption and carbon emissions, particularly in remote and ecologically sensitive regions.
With the potential to reshape transportation in the Amazon and beyond, this project serves as a beacon for future developments in clean energy and mobility solutions. As Albuquerque notes, “By embracing these innovative technologies, we can lead the way toward a more sustainable future for transportation systems globally.”
For more information about the research and its implications, you can visit the [Post-Graduate Program in Electrical Engineering at UFPA](http://www.ufpa.br). The findings are detailed in the article published in ‘Machines,’ showcasing the intersection of technology, sustainability, and energy innovation.
