Energy storage manufacturer EST-Floattech has been contracted by system integrator Hoogendijk Electric to design and deliver a complete battery system for a new-build hybrid coaster vessel. This is the third in a series for Norwegian company Hagland.
The new battery system will enable the self-discharging bulk carrier to make zero-emission port calls. In full-electric mode the vessel will also be able to sail into environmentally sensitive environments including fjords or near-coastal communities. Additionally, if a shore connection is unavailable, the EST-Floattech battery system will enable zero-emission discharging of the transported bulk cargo. When conducting long-distance operations, the vessel’s system will enable peak shaving via the electric motor and generator. Batteries can then be charged during transit or in harbor where a shore connection is available.
EST-Floattech used its DNV-certified Green Orca battery system for the project. The company’s supply scope will consist of battery management software and control units for enhanced safety. The system was optimized to suit the ship’s operational profile in partnership with system integrator Hoogendijk Electric – the company responsible for the entire onboard electrical installation.
“It is interesting to see changing market demand as part of the energy transition,” said Walter van der Pennen, commercial director at EST-Floattech. “Our industry is evolving toward a more environmentally friendly mindset, partly driven by external regulations, but also by developing insights within maritime companies themselves. This will lead to more and more hybrid and even electrical coasters in the coming months and years. We are grateful for the trust that Hoogendijk and our end clients have put in us to arrange for a safe, long-term power solution for this vessel. With this hybrid coaster Hagland is clearly a forerunner in the market and we are proud to be part of that process.”
In addition to conducting zero-emission port operations, the system will also enable reduced noise and emissions when sailing at sea. Hagland says the new coasters will reduce CO2 emissions by 40% and NOx emissions by approximately 90% when compared with the company’s older vessels that are set to be replaced.
The 5,000dwt self-discharging bulk carrier is currently being built at Royal Bodewes shipyard in Hoogezand, Netherlands, and is scheduled for delivery in 2023. Upon delivery the vessel will be IMO Tier III compliant.