Norwegian ferry operator Fjord1 has contracted Norwegian Electric Systems (NES) to act as system integrator and deliver power control, distribution and battery systems on three ferries set to be converted from gas and diesel propulsion to zero-emission battery operation. NES will also deliver equipment and control systems for four battery charging stations.
“Our role as system integrator and supplier of complete systems on board and onshore allows us to optimize the charging versus the onboard energy requirements and thereby secure the highest possible energy efficiency. Or put simply, reduce opex to an absolute minimum,” said Martin Aasheim, who is managing the project for NES.
Under the contract, NES will equip the three ferries with batteries, charging systems, generators, upgraded AC circuit boards and automation systems. For the battery charging stations, the company will supply charging towers, power electronics and control systems. It will design, assemble and test the systems at its headquarters in Godvik outside Bergen, Norway.
“These projects are not only about combining different pieces of technology. The most valuable contribution we bring to these projects is our role as system integrator. The latter allows us to optimize the entire power system conversion and reduce risk for both the yard and the shipowner,” added Aasheim
NES has already installed battery systems on board 18 zero-emission ferries. The latest contract with Fjord1 will bring the total installed base to 21. Once converted, the three vessels will operate on the Drag – Kjøpsvik and Bognes – Skarberget ferry services in Nordland county, North Norway, from December 2022.