World’s Largest Hybrid Ferry

A hybrid ferry project worth EUR 14,7 million has launched the world’s biggest hybrid ferry for Scandlines’ M/F Princess Benedikte, which sails the route between Rødby-Puttgarden.

By State of Green | [email protected]

1 May 2014

The ferry has been equipped with a hybrid system from Siemens, which makes it possible to store surplus energy in 399 batteries, replacing 1 one of 5 diesel engines on the ferry:

"The power electronics and control technology which enables functional use of batteries in this large scale is developed and delivered by Siemens. Siemens with battery module supplier Corvus Energy are proud to be a part of a unique team together with Scandlines. This is the world first system of this kind and we are very satisfied with the functionality and the reductions in CO₂ emissions,” explains Head of Sales Domestic at Siemens Ketil Aagesen.

The energy storage ability optimises energy performance and it is expected that the reduced energy discharge will reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 15%.

"We don’t see any discrepancy between producing high-quality technological solutions and being climate-conscious – on the contrary. Our cooperation with Scandlines demonstrates this. The new solution delivers impeccable performance with substantially lowers energy consumption. This is the path, our developments must follow,” says Communication Director for Siemens Denmark John Finnich Pedersen.

Scanlines will continue to invest more than EUR 40 million in sustainable technologies on their ferries towards 2015:

“The hybrid system is a vital part of our green strategy. It is the first time that a shipping company has succeeded in utilizing technology for shipping on such a scale – naturally, I am proud that Scandlines pioneers this area”, says CEO of Scandlines Søren Poulsgaard Jensen.

The energy storage system in detail

Each energy storage system consists of a Shipnet Supply that can deliver up to 3 MW charge and discharge power. The energy is stored in 2.6 MWh energy storage modules supported by lithium batteries. The battery modules are delivered by Corvus Energy, a global manufacturer of lithium polymer batteries used in hybrid and 100% electric commercial applications.

The new system will be integrated into the existing 6.6 kV switchboard. The hybrid operation is characterised by optimised efficiency of the vessels’ drive train. The engines operate at most effective workload (around 90%) constantly. Surplus energy during very short port times and while sailing with low speed (e.g. in shallow waters) is stored in batteries, which can be recalled at peak power demand (e.g. for full speed).

Through this methodology, the Scandlines ferry can optimise its fuel consumption by adjusting its engine output. Thus, the ferry is expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 15%. In addition, Diesel generator-set maintenance cost reductions are expected through optimised running and improved utilisation of each generator set. Due to the high capacity and flexibility of energy storage modules an existing diesel generator is removed. Compensating for this is a total weight gain of 35 tonnes.

Source: Siemens

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