EMEA News
Norway Aiming to be the World Leader in Environmentally Friendly Ships
Cavotec SA (Cavotec) says they are working on a NOK1.45 million ($178,769) initiative led by DNV GL, known as ReCharge, aimed to helping Norway to become the world leader in environmentally friendly ships.
The project aims to increase use of electric-propelled vessels in Norway through the expansion of shore power infrastructure in the country, as well as research different power systems, including battery-powered and hybrid vessels.
"We supported research and development into electric cars in Norway, now we need to establish an innovation platform for the electrification of ships," said Sofus Gedde Dahl, Managing Director of Cavotec Norway.
"If we pool our expertise with fellow suppliers, customers and other stakeholders, I believe that we have the necessary technical know-how and insight to significantly broaden access to shore power."
Cavotec says other partners on the project include the Port of Oslo and technology and data analytics company, Enova, which is reported to be contributing almost 50 percent of the project's total budget.
Shore power has received some harsh criticism this year, with the president and CEO of the South Carolina Ports Authority, James Newsome, in May calling it a "last-generation solution," but DNV GL says the technology is "critically important for battery-powered ships and plug-in hybrid vessels."
DNV GL says that about 40 hybrid ships have been ordered by Norwegian shipping lines, with another approximately 40 plug-in hybrid vessels set to enter service within the next several years.
Development of the infrasturue to support those vessels is therefore key, notes, Bjørn Vartdal, Programme Leader for Maritime Research at DNV GL, and that will need the support of central government to be achieved.
"Shipping lines want to see a return on their investment within a relatively short time scale," he said.
In May, DNV GL announced that the 2015 Seatrade Award for clean shipping was awarded to the Norled owned and operated Ampere, the world's first fully electric driven vessel.
