ABB to boost sustainability and efficiency for pioneering superyacht

ABB will deliver electric, digital and connected solutions for Nobiskrug’s Project 790, one of the first superyachts built to meet new emissions standards. The 80m vessel, built at Nobiskrug shipyard in Germany and due for delivery in 2019, will feature many ABB technologies designed to help the vessel comply with the International Maritime Organization’s new Tier III regulations, which come into force for all superyachts from 2021 onwards and require nitrogen oxide emissions to be 70% lower than those permitted under current limits. Nobiskrug’s Project 790 will be powered by two gearless steerable Azipod C propulsion units, which, claims ABB, can consume 20% less fuel than conventional shaftline propulsion systems. Furthermore, the units provide 360° rotation and extend below the vessel’s hull to free onboard space and reduce noise and vibration. Elsewhere, ABB’s Onboard DC Grid power and distribution system will enable the engines to work at variable speeds and draw on stored energy. The system, which has been proved to cut fuel consumption by 27% in other applications, is also suitable for integration of next-generation energy sources, including renewables. What’s more, the vessel will also feature ABB’s integrated Power and Energy Management System, which autonomously controls load sharing between energy sources. “ABB was chosen because of its vast experience in the passenger vessel field and global service network,” said Holger Kahl, managing director, Nobiskrug. “We are convinced of the many benefits of Onboard DC Grid, Azipod propulsion and life-long support for this advanced-technology yacht.” The superyacht will also have the capability to connect to ABB’s Ability Collaborative Operations Centers network, which uses remote equipment monitoring and data analytics to enable predictive maintenance, planned interventions and remote technical support.