Battery manufacturer AYK Energy has secured a deal to supply its 2,073kWh OrionAN batteries to nine ro-pax vessels being built for Grimaldi Group as part of the shipping company’s fleet renewal program.
Naples-based Grimaldi Group, which traces its history back to 1947, is a multinational logistics company specializing in the operation of ro-ro ships, car carriers and ferries. The nine vessels are being constructed at China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Weihai) and are due for delivery between 2028 and 2030. Six will be deployed in the Mediterranean under the Grimaldi Lines and Minoan Lines brands, while three will be operated by Finnlines in the Baltic Sea.
The ro-pax vessels will feature multi-fuel engines capable of running on methanol, alongside a range of technologies including modern hull and propeller design, shore power connectivity and waste heat recovery systems. AYK said its OrionAN batteries will contribute to the vessels’ energy efficiency and environmental performance.
The batteries are part of AYK’s latest range, which received DNV type approval last year, which the company said reinforces their compliance with maritime safety and performance standards.
AYK Energy founder Chris Kruger described the DNV approval as a “game changer” for making marine battery technology more affordable and driving adoption. He said the Grimaldi order reflects growing demand for the company’s battery solutions and their role in the maritime sector’s transition to greater sustainability.
“With high profile deals with major players in the maritime world like Grimaldi, AYK continues to demonstrate how battery technology is evolving and becoming more powerful, more advanced and more competitive,” he said.
“AYK’s battery solutions help shipping operators like Grimaldi improve efficiency, reduce emissions and accelerate the transition toward more sustainable maritime transport.
“We all want to see fewer emissions and green shipping. But batteries will only be part of the decarbonization agenda if shipowners see the return on investment. There has to be a compelling business case.
“And that’s what the range of batteries that AYK can now offer is all about – the mass adoption of batteries that can pay for themselves within a matter of years.”
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