RINA has signed a memorandum of understanding with Hanwha Group to support the development and adoption of battery-hybrid propulsion systems in the maritime sector, with an initial focus on ro-ro ferries.
The agreement involves Hanwha Power Systems, Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Engine, and is aimed at accelerating the shift from conventional internal combustion engines to hybrid battery solutions in both new-build vessels and retrofit projects.
Under the collaboration, Hanwha Power Systems will act as the lead integrator, responsible for overall ship design and system integration. The company will combine Hanwha Aerospace’s energy storage systems with propulsion technologies from Hanwha Engine to develop hybrid propulsion configurations.
Hanwha Aerospace will apply its experience in aerospace energy systems to marine energy storage solutions, while Hanwha Engine will focus on optimizing propulsion systems to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
RINA will provide classification and certification support, including verification of regulatory compliance and technical validation of the systems. The company will also contribute market analysis for the ferry segment, drawing on its experience in that sector.
The partners said the collaboration is intended to support the wider adoption of low-emission propulsion technologies by combining systems integration, energy storage and regulatory expertise into a single offering.
Simone Manca, North Asia Marine vice president at RINA, said, “This agreement reflects the increasing pace of innovation required to meet the maritime sector’s decarbonization targets.”
He added that the partnership is intended to promote “safe, efficient, and scalable hybrid propulsion solutions for the global fleet”.
Kim Hyoung-Seog, head of the marine solutions business division at Hanwha Power Systems, said the collaboration brings together the group’s capabilities in energy equipment, battery systems and engine integration.
“Through our partnership with RINA, we will secure reliable technologies and strengthen our presence in the global eco-friendly vessel market,” he added.
The companies said the initiative will focus on developing integrated solutions that can support emissions reduction targets while maintaining operational efficiency in ferry operations.
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