Next generation upgrade of two 200 PCU ferries

Bastø Fosen has announced that they will electrify two existing ferries at the busy Moss-Horten route. A new all electric ferry is under construction at Sefine Shipyard in Turkey, and is scheduled to be delivered later this year.

Norwegian Ship Design (TNSDC) has worked closely with BastøFosen in developing the conversion design and as general advisors. "We are grateful for the confidence BastøFosen has shown in us, and we are looking forward to continued work on this project" says Norwegian Ship Design's CEO Gjermund Johannessen.

The two ferries are currently arranged with a diesel mechanical drive system, with a main engine in each end driving an azimuth propeller. The diesel engines will be kept as backup and fitted with generators. Electric motors will be installed for driving the propellers. More than 4 MWh of batteries, power electronics etc. will also be installed. Charging voltage will be 11 kV and charging power typically about 7000 kW.

Moss-Horten is Norway's busiest ferry route with 36 000 annual departures. With the tre main ferries electrified, diesel consumption is expected to drop by 6 million liters annually, equal to a 75% reduction. Battery electric operation will commence next year and all three ferries are planned in battery electric operation at latest summer 2022.

ENOVA (the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment's fund for reduction of greenhouse gases) has supported the project with a significant amount.

For press release (in Norwegian only) see: basto-fosen.no

Update July 13 2020:

Westcon Yards are chosen for the next generation upgrade.
For press release (in Norwegian only) click here.