ABB has secured a major contract from Poland’s Remontowa Shipbuilding S.A. to supply power distribution and propulsion systems for seven new all-electric ferries being built for Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) in Scotland.
Scheduled for delivery between late 2027 and early 2029, the ferries will operate across nine routes in the Clyde and Hebrides region, furthering Scotland’s efforts toward low-emission maritime transport. ABB will also deliver shore power infrastructure across multiple CMAL terminals, beginning with Kennacraig and Port Askaig, enabling clean energy charging from the grid.
Compact Onboard DC Grid™ to Power Next-Generation Ferries
Each of the 50-meter-long vessels, designed to carry up to 200 passengers and 24 cars (with one vessel accommodating 250 passengers and 16 cars), will feature ABB’s Compact Onboard DC Grid™ system. This distributed power solution integrates efficiently within limited onboard space and supports optimal energy management.
The setup includes a marine DC switchboard, HES880 inverters, and ABB’s high-performance AXME Marine Motors providing exceptional power density, reliability, and energy efficiency. Integrated with ABB’s advanced energy management, alarm, and monitoring system, the DC Grid solution ensures smooth and flexible vessel operations.
Shore Power Integration for Cleaner Ports
ABB will also equip CMAL terminals with shore connection systems that allow ferries to plug into the local electrical grid while berthed. This eliminates the need for running engines in port, significantly cutting CO₂ emissions and reducing noise pollution.
The initiative, co-funded by the Scottish Government, supports the UK’s broader decarbonization targets for the maritime sector and marks a key step toward zero-emission port operations.
Jim Anderson, Director of Vessels at CMAL, highlighted the importance of the project, stating: “These ferries will bring the benefits of clean, fully electric propulsion to island and rural communities in Scotland.” ABB’s Marine & Ports division President, Juha Koskela, added that the Compact Onboard DC Grid™ “enables efficient and flexible electrification of short-sea ships, advancing global maritime decarbonization.”
Through this partnership, ABB reinforces its leadership in marine electrification and shore connection technologies while supporting CMAL’s Small Vessel Replacement Programme. The all-electric ferries will not only strengthen Scotland’s ferry network but also set new benchmarks for sustainable maritime transport, improving air quality and promoting cleaner, quieter operations in coastal communities.
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Source: ABB
