Bergen Engines to provide generating sets for world’s largest hydrogen-powered ferries

Bergen Engines, a producer of medium-speed engines and generating sets, on Wednesday (1 May) said it has been selected to provide four C25:33L8A generating sets to support the world’s largest hydrogen ferries, operating on Norway’s longest ferry connection from Bodø to Lofoten.

The generating sets will be fuelled by low carbon Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and will serve as reliable support power to the hydrogen fuel cells onboard, which act as the vessel’s main propulsion power. These new ferries will be powered with a hybrid mix of 85% hydrogen fuel cells and 15% biofuel from Bergen’s C25:33 engines.

The hydrogen ferries, commissioned by Torghatten Nord, have been designed by Norwegian Ship Design Company and will be constructed by Myklebust Verft. 

Eirik Olsen, Operations Director at Torghatten Nord, said: “Norway has the will, expertise, and experience needed to realise our zero-emission ambitions, and develop world-leading solutions for maritime operations.”

“Our Norwegian partners are at the forefront of design and development in energy-efficient ships and technology, and this project will greatly contribute to competence development in maritime, electrical, automation, and engineering fields.”

Through this project, Torghatten Nord will become the first major purchaser of hydrogen in Norway, contributing significantly to the further advancement of the Norwegian hydrogen industry. 

Photo credit: Bergen Engines
Published: 2 May, 2024