SeaFjord Energy, a Swedish innovator in marine energy solutions, has selected ABB‘s power and propulsion solution for its e-bunker vessel concept, which offers a new way to power ships at sea, in fjords or in harbours.
The vessel concept, developed in collaboration with FKAB Marine Design and Bureau Veritas features a large battery pack that can provide renewable energy where conventional shore power infrastructure is less accessible, such as in remote fjords and offshore locations.
The e-bunker vessel can be charged via a shore connection or draw power directly from a wind farm using ABB’s charging system. The technology will also be used to charge other vessels at sea. The e-bunker is designed to power vessels of various sizes, from small to large, with up to 50 megawatts of power.
Maximum propulsion efficiency is crucial
The vessel concept benefits from two “ABB Dynafin” propulsion units to maximise efficiency and responsiveness in all operating situations. Maximum propulsion efficiency is crucial for a concept of this type, as it minimises the energy required to propel the vessel, making more of it available for recharging other vessels.
The combined movement of the drive’s wheel and blades generates propulsion and steering forces simultaneously, enabling very good operational efficiency and precision for ships, according to ABB. In addition, the drives can be seamlessly integrated into the company’s “Onboard DC Grid energy system platform,” which increases the vessel’s overall performance.
The “Onboard DC Grid” is a modular and highly customisable energy system platform that enables simple, flexible and functional integration of energy sources and loads. Its versatility makes it well-suited to meet the operational requirements of the e-bunker.
“PEMS” is at the heart of the ship’s combined power and control system, ensuring the optimal utilisation of all the ship’s energy resources in a safe, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly manner. ABB’s solution optimises the use and flow of energy on board and to the ships bunkering from there.
ABB’s electrical power and propulsion system enables maximum efficiency
“ABB is delighted to be involved in this ground-breaking design. Our electric power and propulsion system enables maximum efficiency in both transmission and propulsion, which means that more of the transported energy can be used by bunker customers,” said Marcus Högblom, head of ABB Marine & Ports’ passenger segment.
“This is the world’s first e-bunker vessel that will supply ships in fjords, harbours and on the high seas with electrical energy. This development is an important step towards a more sustainable maritime sector,” said Elias Magnusson, COO, SeaFjord Energy.
“We are pleased to support the development of this innovative e-bunker vessel that advances sustainable maritime solutions while maintaining high safety and environmental standards,” said Herman Spilker, Vice President of North Europe Zone at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.
“FKAB is pleased and grateful to be part of this e-bunker design and that we received the request from Seafjord Energy to be involved from day one and develop their idea together. This project is the first of its kind and fits perfectly with the innovative projects FKAB likes to be part of,” said Andreas Hagberg, Head of Sales and Marketing at FKAB Marine Design.
