By
Rebecca Gibson |
Rolls-Royce is to install its patented Promas Lite propulsion system on Hurtigruten’s Richard With to improve propeller efficiency and reduce operating costs.
The integrated propeller and rudder system will replace the ship’s existing twin Rolls-Royce controllable pitch propellers and be retrofitted during the ship’s routine drydock in November.
“As an experienced operator of this system, Hurtigruten recognise the fuel savings and relatively short return on investment achieved by retrofitting Promas Lite,” said Andrew Marsh, president of services at Rolls-Royce. “This installation will take place during routine dry docking so there will be no impact on the vessel’s operational schedule. We have equipment installed onboard most of Hurtigruten’s cruise vessels and we have worked together to develop and operate efficient propulsion systems suited to its fleet requirements for many years.”
By installing the Promas Lite solution, Hurtigruten expects to improve fuel costs by up to 15 per cent and propeller efficiency by around 14 per cent when travelling at speeds of 15 knots. The line will also redeem up to 80 per cent of their total investment from the Norwegian government’s nitrogen oxide (NOx) fund, which encourages ship operators to invest in technology that will reduce NOx emissions.