Sustainable Green Energy

The ecological component of HReko is one of its strongest features. It makes it eco-friendly, autonomic and versatile. At 40% lower displacement compared to boats of similar size and purpose (4t versus 7.1t) it requires far less energy for propulsion. It also has the ability to transform wind and light into electric energy, offering owners considerable savings on standard fuel.

There are total of 1500 watts of solar panels on board, and 1100 watts are under direct sunlight when the boat is sideways to sun. The solar panels are integrated so they don’t interfere with sailing the vessel. The effects of shadows, almost impossible to eliminate on sailing boats, are minimal. At 9 sq. meters of area, the highly efficient solar panels can generate about 6 kWh (in the Mediterranean area) of electric energy in one day when stationary. When sailing in favorable winds two pod motors can regenerate 2 kW per hour from submerged propellers. A total of 30 kWh of stored battery capacity allows for a theoretical range of 60 miles solely on (self-generated) electric energy. Applying just 200-watts of power to the propeller drives when sailing with minimal wind creates a 2-knot increase in speed. This small amount of power gives a boost to the boat that enhances control and the overall sailing experience.

HReko is a sailboat with serial hybrid propulsion. When not sailing, the propulsion system consists of one 6 kW diesel generator powering the two 10 kW electric pod motors. Theoretical speed of the boat is 5.6 knots with utilization of 1.9 kW of electric power, 6.4 knots with 3.2 kW, and 8.1 knots with 10 kW. HReko will normally use only 10-20% of the available power of its electric motors. They are oversized because of their regeneration task.

With its 6 kWh average daily production of electric energy from the sun, HReko is suitable for automation via electric systems for reefing, winches, autopilot, etc. The 2400W induction cooktop with two burners (in addition to two gas burners), microwave oven, and 92 liter built in fridge-freezer provide for more comfort and convenience on board. Average consumption of electric energy is 4 kWh per day. Under ideal condition on board, systems are configured to generate an excess of 4 kWh/d capacity from its solar panels and pod motors allowing high levels of stored electrical energy. Depending on areas and manner of sailing, HReko can be considered as carbon neutral vessel.

Utilizing the concept of a light (fast) boat, a large interior space for comfort, minimal draft, great initial stability, unsinkable hull, functional rig and sails, HReko meets the demands of the older sailors who live the sea and have time for their old love.