Abstract
This project examined the coast of the UK to find a route to test proof of concept vessels to demonstrate the commercial and functional viability of small Windpowered Autonomous Surface Vessels (WASV) for cargo transport. Several suitable areas were identified, and one area, the Firth of Clyde, was investigated more closely. Suggestions were limited to currently active ports and cargos investigated were limited to the minor bulk trades. A pair of suitable ports, Campbeltown and Troon, were identified and a cargo, round wood timber, was found. Over the route identified the costs of using road transport, conventional small coasters and WASV were estimated. It was found that the cost of using the WASV would be comparable with the costs of the conventional alternatives, with the advantage of reduced carbon emissions and potentially less intrusive traffic patterns.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have