ABB’s power and propulsion solution has been chosen by SeaFjord Energy, a Swedish innovator in marine energy solutions, for a pioneering e-bunker vessel concept that offers a new way of supplying energy to ships at sea, in fjords or in ports.
The vessel concept, developed in collaboration with FKAB Marine Design and Bureau Veritas (BV), will feature a large battery pack capable of providing renewable energy where traditional shore power infrastructure is less accessible, such as remote fjords and offshore locations.
The e-bunker vessel can be charged through a shore connection or draw energy directly from a wind farm, utilising ABB’s charging system. ABB’s technology is envisioned to be used for charging other vessels at sea, with the e-bunker designed to deliver up to 50MW of power to ships of various sizes.
The vessel benefits from two ABB Dynafin propulsion units to maximise propulsion efficiency and responsiveness in all operational situations. Maximum propulsion efficiency is crucial for a concept of this kind as it minimises the energy required to power the vessel, thereby making more energy available for charging other ships. ABB Dynafin propulsion’s combined motion of the wheel and blades generates propulsion and steering forces simultaneously, enabling ground-breaking operational efficiency and precision for ships. Additionally, the propulsors integrate with ABB’s Onboard DC Grid power system platform, enhancing the vessel’s overall performance.
The Onboard DC Grid is a modular and customisable power system platform that enables simple, flexible and functional integration of energy sources and loads, which is able to meet the e-bunker’s operational requirements.
ABB’s PEMS is at the core of the combined power and control system, ensuring optimal use of the vessel’s total power resources in a safe, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly manner. ABB’s solution optimises energy use and flow onboard, as well as towards the vessels bunkering from it.
Marcus Högblom, Head of Passenger segment, ABB Marine and Ports said: “ABB is excited to collaborate on this ground-breaking design. Our electric power and propulsion system enables maximal efficiency both for transmission and propulsion, which means that a larger part of the carried energy can be used by bunker customers.”
Elias Magnusson, COO, SeaFjord Energy said: “This is the world’s first e-bunker vessel which will provide electric power to ships in fjords, ports and offshore. This development is a significant step towards a more sustainable maritime sector.”
Herman Spilker, VP North Europe Zone, BV Marine and Offshore said: “We are pleased to support the development of this innovative e-bunker vessel, advancing sustainable maritime solutions while maintaining high safety and environmental standards.”
Andreas Hagberg, Head of Sales and Marketing, FKAB Marine Design said: “FKAB is glad and grateful to be part of this e-bunker design, and that we got the question from Seafjord Energy to take part from day one to develop their idea together. This project is the first-of-its-kind and perfectly in line with innovative projects that FKAB likes to take part in.”
Image: e-bunker concept (credit: FKAB Marine Design)
