The Hurtigruten-led Sea Zero project is to receive funding worth NOK 67m from The Green Platform Initiative to develop zero-emission coastal express vessels.
The Green Platform Initiative provides funding for enterprises and research institutes engaged in green growth and restructuring driven by research and innovation. The funds are managed by the Research Council, Innovation Norway and Siva.
Hurtigruten’s ambition is to develop a zero-emission ship for the costal route from Bergen to Kirkenes. The project is estimated to cost nearly NOK 123m, and is being undertaken in close cooperation with several leading Norwegian maritime suppliers, including Brunvoll.
Hedda Felin, CEO Hurtigruten Norway said: “This is great news for us. The support means that Hurtigruten Norway’s plans for zero emission vessels on the Norwegian coastline takes large step forward and we are on schedule for our first vessel in 2030.”
Brunvoll will contribute to Sea Zero with the development of propulsion systems and with decision support systems on efficient and safe operations, receiving NOK 5.25m. Brunvoll says it has long traditions in development of new technology and welcomes the focus on zero emissions.
Knut Andresen EVP Engineering & Product Development, Brunvoll said: “This is an important project, both to state Norway’s position in ship design, equipment, and building, and for Brunvoll to contribute to a more sustainable future.”
Trond Johnsen, Marketing Director, SINTEF Ocean, another project participant said: “The development of zero emission vessels is very positive for the climate in itself, but the project will also give great positive effect on the maritime industry in Norway. Development of new green technology will increase competence and improve our export potential for the industry in general and for the partners in the project in particular.”
The Sea Zero project partners are: Hurtigruten Norway, SINTEF, Cavotec, Vard, Brunvoll, Corvus Energy, DNV, Sustainable Energy Catapult, Teknotherm, Plug, Jotun, Norwegian Maritime Authority and Bergen Port.
