Competitiveness Analysis and Future Development Trend of Solar-powered Ships in the International Maritime Transport Market

Abstract

With the increasingly serious global environmental problems, the international marine transportation industry is seeking more environmentally friendly and efficient modes of transportation. In this study, the competitiveness of solar-powered ships in the international maritime transport market is deeply analyzed, and its future development trend is discussed. With its advantages of zero emission, low operating cost and environmental protection, solar-powered ships are gradually attracting market attention. By comparing the differences between solar-powered ships and traditional fuel-fired ships in operating costs, environmental performance and market competitiveness, it is found that solar-powered ships have significant economic and environmental benefits in the long run. Although the initial investment cost is high, the operating cost of solar-powered ships is much lower than that of traditional fuel-powered ships, especially when the oil price fluctuates greatly. In addition, the advantages of solar-powered ships in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and marine pollution are in line with the global trend of green and low-carbon development and help to enhance the environmental image of the shipping industry. In the future, with technological innovation and policy support, solar-powered ships are expected to further improve their photoelectric conversion efficiency and optimize hull design, thus enhancing market competitiveness. At the same time, the upstream and downstream enterprises in the industrial chain will also usher in opportunities for coordinated development and jointly promote the development of the solar ship market. As a new green transportation mode in the international marine transportation market, solar-powered ships have broad development prospects and huge market potential.