DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING,

The increasing cost of diesel fuel and the environmental impact of carbon emissions have driven the maritime industry to explore hybrid propulsion systems that integrate renewable energy sources. This research focuses on optimizing the propulsion system of a 8m small passenger ferry by incorporating solar energy alongside a diesel generator to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability. The study examines a 10 kW marine diesel generator and a 48V lead-acid battery system to assess fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, and cost reduction when supplemented with solar power. A detailed analysis of fuel consumption reveals that the diesel generator alone consumes approximately 2.5 to 3 liters per hour, leading to substantial operational costs. By integrating a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, generator runtime can be reduced, resulting in lower diesel consumption and decreased CO₂ emissions. Calculations show that solar energy can reduce fuel costs by up to 50%, extending generator lifespan and minimizing maintenance costs. The research includes battery runtime calculations, solar energy contribution estimates, and diesel generator sizing to determine optimal hybrid system performance. A comparison of fuel consumption and emissions with and without solar integration demonstrates the system's efficiency improvements. Findings suggest that the hybrid approach offers a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable solution for small passenger ferries, reducing fuel dependency and enhancing energy efficiency. This study concludes that integrating solar power into marine propulsion systems is a viable strategy for improving economic feasibility and environmental sustainability in the maritime sector. The research provides a foundation for further development of hybrid solar-diesel propulsion technologies in passenger ferries and other small vessels

The availability of water is important for all forms of life, serving as a fundamental need and
an indispensable element of biological processes. From consumption and hygiene to agriculture and recreation, water's applications are numerous. Its abundance in various forms - from the vast oceans to the human body itself - stresses its critical role in sustaining life. Just
as oxygen is essential for life, so too is water, making it an irreplaceable foundation of our
world.

In recent times, the trend of exploring renewable energy source has become paramount as the emission from fossil fuels use for power generation happens to become a threat to lives and environment. Hence, this project focuses on designing a simple device to harness clean and renewable energy in coastal region that experiences appreciable amount of wave activity. Compare to solar energy, wave energy is less talk of in some continent of the world, most especially Africa, this challenge led us to research and gather information from existing location that already utilized wave energy converters. The study involves analyzing wave data to determine the energy content of the waves and the feasibility of wave energy extraction at the location sited. Based on the wave characteristics, a wave harvesting unit will be developed, considering wave factors such as wave height, wave period and water depth. Moreover, in the course of this project the potential energy yield of the designed will be estimated based on the wave energy resources available at the site. The findings of this study will contribute to the development of sustainable energy solutions and provide insights into the viability of wave energy as a renewable energy source at the selected location.