Solar1 boat race in July to promote solar innovation

The international Solar1 Solar Boat World Championship will take place in July in Monaco and will bring together teams from around the world to promote solar power innovation and development.

Over 20 teams from countries including Brazil, Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Turkey and the United States will compete at the Monte-Carlo Cup from July 9–11.

The Yacht Club de Monaco will host the competition for the second year running for solar-powered boats designed and driven by students from international universities.

There are three classes of vessels: A, Open, and V20 with the class A vessels being restricted to four solar panels and Open class boats limited to 8 meters in length.

According to Solar1’s official website, the aim of the competition is: “to promote the use of solar power in our everyday lives, which I strongly believe in. I see it as a great opportunity to animate and excite a new generation, whilst also focusing their attention on important issues such as renewable energy. I would like our future to be: clean, economical and sustainable. Solar1 moves us all towards a greener, brighter future!”

Prizes are awarded for speed, as well as innovation and fair play and the competition comprises three events: a fleet race, a one-on-one sprint, and a slalom race.