Solar-Powered ROV: Advancing Underwater Exploration with Renewable Energy

Considering the importance of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) in conducting inspections, data collection, and exploration beneath the sea surface, this paper proposes a solar-powered ROV solution. Solar power is employed to power the ROV/AUV, with an appropriately designed solar panel providing 5 hours of performance for the Blue ROV. A miniaturized 10Hp/12kg ROV is being considered for underwater activities, with an energy demand load of 943.68W. To meet this demand, solar panels are installed on floating platforms to generate the necessary power, with meticulous calculations determining the best number and size of solar modules. In order to ensure continuous operation, inverters, charge controllers, and battery banks are sized accordingly. The proposed model optimizes silicon solar cells using the COMSOL Multiphysics environment. Simulations in COMSOL Multiphysics validate results against design parameters, confirming adherence to calculated values. The use of solar-powered systems improves operational effectiveness while also ensuring long-term sustainability in maritime activities. The solar-powered ROV represents a significant step towards environmentally conscious and efficient underwater exploration in the Gulf of Guinea and elsewhere by utilizing renewable energy.