Sanlorenzo has added battery storage to its alternative power programme through a new agreement with BYD Energy Storage.
The agreement, announced on 29 June, names BYD Energy Storage as Sanlorenzo’s Technology Supplier and Official Battery Supplier. The companies will also run a joint research and development programme. Sanlorenzo announcement
Sanlorenzo says the research will cover battery storage, electrification and onboard power management. Neither company has released technical specifications, battery capacities or details of the first yacht to receive the equipment.
Executive chairman Massimo Perotti linked the agreement to commitments made at Venice Climate Week a few weeks earlier. He said the partnership would allow Sanlorenzo to investigate energy storage and electrification while developing systems intended to reduce the environmental impact of its yachts.
The BYD agreement follows several alternative power projects announced by Sanlorenzo since 2024.
In February 2025, Sanlorenzo announced a dual fuel methanol and diesel propulsion system under development with MAN Engines. The system is intended for the future Sanlorenzo 50 X Space and is expected to reduce emissions while underway by up to 70 per cent.
The 50Steel, launched in 2024, was the first superyacht fitted with Sanlorenzo’s green methanol fuel cell system. It converts methanol into hydrogen, then uses that hydrogen to generate electricity for hotel loads. The system can produce up to 100kW while the main engines and diesel generators remain off.
Sanlorenzo’s Bluegame brand also built the BGH HSV, a hydrogen powered foiling support vessel for the 37th America’s Cup. It was designed to reach 50 knots and provide a range of 180 nautical miles. Bluegame built boats for American Magic and Orient Express Racing Team.
At Venice Climate Week in June, Perotti said fuel supply had become the main obstacle to cleaner propulsion.
“The technology is ready. The infrastructure is not,” he said.
Perotti said less than one per cent of global methanol production currently comes from renewable sources. He also pointed to the shortage of methanol refuelling facilities at Mediterranean marinas.
Sanlorenzo has now added battery storage to its Road to 2030 programme. What that produces remains unknown. The builder hasn’t named a yacht, set a launch date or disclosed the agreement’s value.
The next meaningful announcement will hopefully provide those details.
