In Short : The National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) is advancing research on solarisation of boats through pilot projects and field trials. These initiatives aim to reduce fuel dependency, lower emissions, and promote clean energy in water transport. By testing real-world feasibility, NISE is supporting sustainable maritime solutions and contributing to India’s broader renewable energy and decarbonisation goals.
In Detail : The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is not implementing any scheme to support use of solar-powered boats for fishing, passenger transport and tourism. However, National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), an autonomous institute under the aegis of MNRE, is conducting a study on feasibility of utilizing solar power in boats including the boats used for fishing.
NISE has collaborated with the Centre for Sustainable Energy and Environment (CSEE), a non-governmental organization, for the implementation of the pilot project and trial runs.
Some of the key milestones achieved in this area include the development and deployment of a pilot solar boat for fishermen. The design work and procurement of key components such as PV modules, batteries, charge controllers, motors, and fibre boats have been completed. The motor, PV modules, and batteries have been tested at the NISE and fibre boat fabrication has been completed at Uppada Harbour. System integration, field trials and performance validation at the demonstration site are currently being carried out.
This information was submitted by Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy Shri Shripad Yesso Naik in a written reply to Rajya Sabha today.
