By
Alice Chambers |
Hurtigruten Norway has received 67 million NOK ($68 million) in funding from the Norwegian Research Council to develop a zero-emission cruise ship that will travel between Bergen and Kirkenes in Norway.
The new vessel is part of Hurtigruten’s Sea Zero project, which is a collaboration between Norwegian companies to deliver a ship that is powered by sustainable technology. The project will cost 123 million NOK ($125 million) in total and already has support from several maritime suppliers including Brunvoll, which will develop the propulsion systems and onboard decision-support systems.
“Brunvoll has long traditions for the development of new technology and welcomes the focus on zero-emission technology,” said Knut Andresen, executive vice president of engineering and product development at Brunvoll. “This is an important project, both to Norway’s position in ship design, equipment, and building, and for Brunvoll to contribute to a more sustainable future.”
Brunvoll will receive 5.25 million NOK ($5.3 million) as part of its contribution to the project.
Norwegian research firm SINTEF is acting as research partner and project manager of the scheme.
“The development of zero-emission vessels is very positive for the climate, but the project will also have a positive effect on the maritime industry in Norway,” said Trond Johnsen, marketing director at SINTEF Ocean. “The development of new green technology will increase competence and improve our potential for the industry in general and for the partners in the project.”