EST-Floattech battery system for newbuild

Maritime energy storage solutions provider EST-Floattech will design and deliver the complete battery system for the third hybrid coaster for Hagland being built at Royal Bodewes shipyard and due for delivery halfway 2023.

Contracted by system integrator Hoogendijk Electric, EST-Floattech will provide a battery system that enables the 5000 DWT self-discharging bulk carrier to make zero-emission port calls. The vessel, one of a series of three, will also sail in full-electric mode in environmentally sensitive environments, such as in fjords or near-coastal communities. When there is no shore connection available, the battery system also allows for zero-emission discharging of the transported bulk cargo.

During long distance transits, the system allows for peak shaving via the electric motor and generator (aka the PTI/PTO), the company said. The batteries can be charged during transit or in harbour via the shore connection.

For this project, EST-Floattech will deploy its DNV-certified Green Orca battery system. The system, including battery management software and control units for enhanced safety, was optimised for the ship’s operational profile in close cooperation with system integrator Hoogendijk Electric, responsible for the complete onboard electrical installation.

System integrator Hoogendijk Electric has contracted EST-Floattech for the battery system for Norwegian hybrid coaster Hagland Pioneer being built at Royal Bodewes shipyard. (Image: EST-Floattech)

“It is interesting to see changing market demand as part of the energy transition,” said Walter van der Pennen, Commercial Director at EST-Floattech. “It is clear that our industry is evolving towards a more environmentally friendly mindset, partly driven by external regulations, but also by developing insights within maritime companies themselves. This will lead to more and more hybrid and even electrical coasters in the coming months and years. We are grateful for the trust that Hoogendijk and our end-clients have put in us to arrange for a safe, long-term power solution for this vessel. With this hybrid coaster Hagland is clearly a forerunner in the market and we are proud to be part of that process.”

According to Hagland, the new coasters will reduce CO2 emissions by 40% and NOx emissions by about 90%, compared to older vessels in their fleet, which will be replaced. With EST-Floattech’s battery-hybrid system, the ship complies with IMO Tier III requirements.