“Hybrid propulsion on large ships is possible, today,” says Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten, as Rolls-Royce announces an innovative equipment package for the Norwegian operator’s two new expedition cruise vessels.
The Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, due for delivery to the Norwegian ferry and cruise operator in 2018 and 2019 respectively, will feature a package that incorporates battery power – potentially increasing from ‘peak shaving’ to full electric propulsion on the second vessel – and four medium-speed Bergen 33:45 engines on each ship. Each engine will be connected to selective catalytic reduction system enabling the vessel to operate within IMO Tier III NOx limits.
On the Roald Asmundsen, auxiliary power from a 1.36MWh battery pack will be used at peak loads, allowing the Bergen engines to run at a more consistent, optimal load. On the second vessel, Rolls-Royce aims to install larger batteries if the technology is available. Space has been reserved for packs of up to 5MWh, enabling the possibility of electric sailing for periods of time (3-4 hours). Hurtigruten aims to refurbish the first ship to this technology later.
The Rolls-Royce designed vessels, which will be built at Kleven yard, will also feature the first delivery of AZP 120- EL permanent magnet driven azipull units as main propellers. Two large tunnel thrusters complement the 3.5MW main thrusters. Rolls-Royce will also supply automation and control systems, including a Unified Bridge which consolidates the many screens, controls and software interfaces needed on the modern bridge.
Skjeldam added: “A passenger ship requires enormous amounts of energy to operate, and so far, there have been no technologies able to fulfil the requirements of a fully electric Hurtigruten ship.”
Mikael Makinen, president – Marine, Rolls-Royce. said: “The vessels represent a dream project for us; delivering our latest technology innovations into beautifully designed and fit-for-purpose vessels.”
Hybrid technology, in combination with the construction of the hull and effective use of electricity onboard, is anticipated to reduce fuel consumption by approximately 20% and CO2 emissions by 20% – equating to more than 3,000 tonnes of CO2 per year.
The full scope of Rolls-Royce’s supply comprises:
- Four Bergen B33:45 engines with SCR systems;
- Battery system;
- Two azipull thrusters with permanent magnet motors and two tunnel thrusters;
- Remote control system;
- Aquarius 100 stabilisers;
- Dynamic positioning system;
- ACON integrated automation system (including Acon Connect and Acon Energy);
- Unified Bridge including chairs, consoles and auxiliary bridge control;
- Mooring winches and cable lifter units of electric frequency converter;
- Rolls-Royce power electric system including generators, motors, switchboards and a power management system;
- Design, basic design and detailed engineering.
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Source: Motorship
