Ferry operator Stena Line has embarked on a project to test out plug-in hybrid technology on the combined passenger and freight ferry Stena Jutlandica through the installation of a 1MWh capacity battery from Callenberg Technology Group.
The project will be carried out in three steps with results potentially applicable to other vessels within Stena Line’s fleet of 38 vessels.
In step one, the focus will be on switching to battery power for bow thrusters and maneuvering when berthing in port.
Step two will see an extended battery operation through connection to the propellers, enabling the Stena Jutlandica to operate on electricity for approximately 10 nautical miles (equal to the distance between Göteborg and Vinga Lighthouse).
In step three, battery capacity will be further expanded enabling a vessel to operate for approximately 50 nautical miles on electricity (which corresponds to the distance between Gothenburg and Frederikshavn).
The ‘step’ approach will provide Stena Line with important testing opportunities to gather data and knowledge about the future potential use of electrical power.
Technical solutions are being developed in partnership with Stena Teknik, who is working collaboratively with academia, government and a range of key strategic suppliers.
The project has already received a lot of positive feedback, and the first phase is being supported and co-funded by the Swedish Maritime Administration and the EU.
“Sustainability is very high on our agenda and we are constantly evaluating new ways to reduce our impact on the environment,” says Stena Line CEO Niclas Martensson.
“From 2015, for example, methanol has been part of the fuel mix on the Stena Germanica, which operates between Gothenburg and Kiel, and we also run around 300 different energy saving projects to help us achieve our goal.
“As both the size and cost of batteries decreases, battery operation is becoming a very exciting alternative to traditional fuels for shipping, with the added prospect of emissions to the air being completely eliminated.”
Photo credit: Stena Line
Published: 5 March, 2018
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