Schottel-equipped hybrid ferry launches
The first of four Schottel-equipped hybrid ferries built for a Norwegian ferry operator has entered service in the Norwegian fjords.
Festøya is expected to demonstrate reduced operating emissions for Norled. Each of the four double-ended RoPax ferries built at the Remontowa shipyard in Poland features two Schottel EcoPellers type SRE 340. These are powered by an diesel-electric hybrid system and operated by green battery power during transit.
The main propulsion for the LMG 120-DEH design vessels consists of electrically driven Schottel EcoPellers type SRE 340 with 2.1 m diameter fixed-pitch propellers. These thrusters allow economical operation of the newly built vessels at a service speed of 10 kn and a free running speed of 12.5 kn.
Propulsion efficiency
The propulsion units are designed to provide full thrust in the required direction, even with strong side winds. Due to the SRE’s outstanding overall propulsion efficiency and course-keeping stability, it is characterized by low operating costs and low fuel consumption, resulting in low emissions.
In operating mode, the required power is supplied by two rechargeable battery packs installed onboard. A shore charging system, which also includes an automatic mooring system, recharges these batteries from the mains when the vessels are docked. The vessels only use generators, run on 100% biodiesel, in an emergency.
Two of the 114.4m long and 17.7m wide Norled ferries will service the Festøya-Solavågen route. The other two vessels will operate the Mannheller-Fodnes route.
The vessels are due to be completed this year.
By Rebecca Jeffrey
