An letter of intent has been signed by Hurtigruten in association with Rolls-Royce to upgrade its nine cruise ships with a gas hybrid system.
Environmental upgrade
The Norwegian cruise ferry operator Hurtigruten and Rolls-Royce have signed the letter paving the way for a major environmental upgrade programme to LNG and battery hybrid power. The engine of the nine cruise ships will be switched from diesel to gas power and the upgrade will also include installation of a hybrid battery system.
The existing six passenger cruise vessel will be upgraded and the technology will be incorporated while building three newer vessels. The power system of the ship will be given a complete makeover with the installation of new Rolls-Royce LNG engines as part of a new hybrid system. The upgrade will enable the former diesel-powered ships to reduce CO2 emissions by at least 25%.
Historic day
Hurtigruten chief executive Daniel Skjeldam said, “This is an investment for the future, and a historic day for us, for the environment and for the whole, long Norwegian coastline. The combination of battery packs with the most environmentally friendly and effective gas engines in the market will provide a huge gain for the environment”.
License issued
Hurtigruten was recently awarded licences by the Norwegian Government for 7 out of 11 coastal ferry routes. The licence issued by the government required Hurtigruten reduce CO2 emissions on the route. With its plans for a major upgrade, Hurtigruten will be able to continue operating its existing fleet on the route and at the same time meet these new stricter environmental demands.
The agreement specifies that Rolls-Royce is to deliver two of its Bergen B36:45L&PG gas engines as the main engines to each ship. Rolls-Royce will also supply the latest electrical power SAVe Cube system, designed with a single integrated drive switchboard for the whole vessel. Additional battery power will also be installed, making the ships hybrid powered and contributing to making them even more environmentally friendly. The propulsion system is planned to also include the Promas system, which combines rudder and propeller into one fuel efficient unit.
Did you subscribe for our daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: LNG World Shipping
