Switzerland-based power and automation technology group ABB has secured a contract to deliver the power system for a hybrid car ferry in Norway.
The MM63 ferry, designed by Multi Maritime and built by Fiskarstrand Verft in western Norway, will have the flexibility to operate as a hybrid and can be modified to run on electricity with a shore charging system.
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Under the contract, ABB will supply the Onboard DC Grid system, a modular electrical system platform that uses direct current to integrate energy sources with customers.
The system comprises two 270kWh battery packs, which are said to make convenient integration of energy storage, enabling the engines to operate at a variable speed.
The batteries will be instrumental for ‘peak shaving’, catering to the power demand and optimising the generators.
ABB Marine and Ports managing director Juha Koskela said: "Energy storage has been one of the most important areas of focus for our research and development team.
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By GlobalData"We recognise batteries have an important role to play on a range of vessels and are technology for the present as well as the future."
The owner of the hybrid ship, Torghatten Trafikkselskap, will have the option of adding another sixteen battery packs and a shore connection to operate the vessel on electricity.
Last year, ABB secured a contract from the Norwegian shipbuilder Brodrene to power its new vessel, Seasight, with a compact and lightweight version of the DC Grid system.
Image: An artistic impression of the Norwegian MM63 hybrid ferry. Photo: courtesy of ABB.
