79 Damen Damen embarked on the construction of battery powered ferries in 2018 with the seven City Ferries for Arriva in Copenhagen, Denmark. Since then, Damen started six more projects. On all but one of these projects, Damen was also involved in the supply of shore charging infrastructure. The growth curve in the need for battery powered ferries has been steep in the past years. The challenges with all projects have included deploying shore power on the dock side in a timely manner and ensure its seamless connection to the vessels’ communication systems, for instance. There is obviously a high dependency on local regulators, communities, and energy suppliers. Battery technology has moved towards more economical options, but the need for lightweight, high-density batteries remains. Another important aspect is the shift in skills, from traditional diesel technology towards electronics and automation. These are two very different trades, and having the right skills is the key to success. Wärtsilä Wärtsilä is pioneering the transition to lightweight battery-electric ferries, with electric propulsion systems achieving up to 90 per cent efficiency due to minimal system losses. The company was commissioned to power the world’s largest lightweight battery-electric ship for Buquebús, built by Incat Tasmania, as well as provide the shore charging solutions for both harbours. It will also be converting two Scandlines ferries to plug-in hybrid operation, enabling 80 per cent of crossing energy to come from electricity. For ferries operating shorter routes, full electrification allows operators to achieve substantial emissions reductions, especially when combined with shore-based charging using renewable energy. This technology is particularly effective for shuttle ferries, dramatically cutting both operational costs and environmental impact.
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