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A groundbreaking new 'super green superyacht' which produces virtually no carbon emissions and is powered using wind, solar and hybrid marine power has been designed by 23-year student Alastair Callender from the UK.

The yacht, named Soliloquy, which is yet to be built, would be made only from sustainable materials and would be capable of running on either wind power via its giant "rigid wing" solarsails, solar power supplied by the panels, or a combination of the two.

Alastair Callender, of Callender Designs, came up with the idea for the eco-yacht during his final year at Coventry University. He approached Australian firm Solar Sailor Holdings Ltd., who were immediately impressed by his project brief to build the new radical 58 metre-long rigid-wing superyacht.

Commenting on the project, Solar Sailor Holdings said "A design brief was reached to ensure that renewable energies, along with eco-friendly materials and construction techniques, would confirm that this superyacht will become one of the most 'green' of luxury yachts. This will comply with, and aims to excel in various industry requirements, including the new Green Star + certification from RINA in Italy."

In total, Soliloquy incorporates 600 square meters of solar panels on the exterior of the boat. Using a Hybrid Marine Power (HMP) system, all renewable solar energy will be stored in the yacht's batteries, which in turn can quietly power the onboard electrics, without the need or noise of a generator. During a period of 12 hours in the sunshine, Soliloquy can run to nearly 8 knots on solar energy alone.

The superyacht is expected to cost the same as normal, less environmentally friendly superyachts, and Callender is said to be currently in talks with potential investors about the idea of building Soliloquy.

"Soliloquy pushes the boundaries of yacht design convention as we know it today, and points to the future of clean, luxury yachting. This pioneering and highly efficient motor-sailor offers numerous advantages, which will widen her appeal to more potential investors and owners - not least thanks to being powered quietly by renewable and hybrid-electric energy. In turn this shall bring zero-emission capabilities, and result in significant savings in fuel cost," Solar Sailor said.