EST is continuing to work on the viability of hydrogen as an alternative energy source for hybrid ships with its Elektra project.
Elektra is a hybrid hydrogen and battery tug designed to move gas turbines between Berlin and Hamburg, requiring the capacity to push 1,400 metric tons over 400km (250 miles). A consortium project with Behala, Herrmann Barthel shipyard, Ballard Power System, Anleg, Rostock, Imperial Logistics, TU Berlin and EST-Floattech, the project will use 125kg-capacity hydrogen storage tanks that are swapped during the journey.
EST will supply the 2.5MW battery providing 2.32MWh for propulsion, which is expected to reach an 80% discharge level during the journey, before being recharged overnight. The discharge rate is expected to give a lifespan of 5,000 cycles over a period of 10 years before capacity falls below the necessary level.
“Due to its very specific properties, concerns have been raised in the marine field about the feasibility of hydrogen as an energy source. However, combined with our established marine battery technology, we have the ability to enhance energy density in zero-emission marine operations, while also improving vessel durability.” explained Kilian Hoffman, account manager of EST.