In a significant move towards maritime decarbonization, Norway-based Eitzen Avanti has secured funding to build the world’s largest battery-powered containerships, thanks to a green grant from Norway’s climate fund Enova.
Zero-Emission Shipping Across Northern Europe
The project involves the construction of two fully electric containerships capable of transporting up to 850 containers with zero emissions. Each vessel will be equipped with over 100 MWh of battery power and will operate on shortsea routes connecting Norway, Sweden, and Germany.
NOK 362 Million in Green Grants
Enova, a state-run agency, is awarding NOK 362 million ($36.6 million) across several green shipping initiatives, including:
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Eitzen Avanti’s containerships
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A charging system at Oslo’s Sjursøya container terminal
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An all-electric bulk carrier for Polar Energy Shipco, designed to transport minerals along Norway’s coast
Enova estimates the projects will reduce emissions by 20,836 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent annually.
A New Wave of Electrification
Andreas Forsnes Jahn, Enova’s senior maritime adviser, highlighted the maturity of battery technology and the sector’s readiness for large-scale electrification:
“The technology is now mature and the projects exist. If the electrification of car ferries was the first wave, we hope this will be the start of the second electrification wave in shortsea shipping.”
With government backing and proven technology, Norway is setting a precedent for sustainable shortsea shipping, aiming to transform the sector through large-scale battery-powered vessels and shore infrastructure.
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Source: Lloyd’s List
