Solar-Powered Cabins Could Make Cruises More Sustainable

Scientists are investigating the possibility of equipping cruise ship cabins with solar panels to enhance energy efficiency and reduce emissions.

Researchers from the German Aerospace Center (DLR) conducted simulations to determine how much energy these balcony-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panels could generate. The findings were promising—based on test cruises in the Caribbean and along Norway’s coast, the panels could produce between 3.2 and 3.8 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity per day, significantly cutting the need for traditional fuel.

This innovation aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) push for lower emissions. The IMO has set a target to reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20% by 2030, with a more ambitious goal of 30%, increasing to 70–80% by 2040.

To achieve these benchmarks, cruise operators are adopting battery storage solutions, energy-efficient onboard systems, and now, potentially, balcony solar panels.

While still in the research phase, this study highlights solar power’s potential to transform the cruise industry. In the future, a cabin balcony might not just offer a scenic view—it could also generate clean energy.