Electric propulsion for green Danish ferries
Denmark is taking a major step toward zero emission shipping with the introduction of two new high-speed electric ferries.
Wärtsilä Corporation will supply the full electric propulsion package, including waterjets, for two battery-powered catamarans being built for Danish ferry operator Molslinjen at the Incat shipyard in Tasmania.
“Our partnership with Molslinjen and Incat not only brings electric vessels to the Kattegat route, but also continues our joint commitment in accelerating the industry’s path towards net-zero emissions shipping,” said Roger Holm, president of Wärtsilä Marine & executive vice president at Wärtsilä Corporation.
Advanced propulsion
The advanced system will include eight electric propulsion motors, Wärtsilä’s ProTouch propulsion control, DC power conversion and integrated energy management and automation technologies.
This electric ferry project represents a milestone in vessel electrification, as the ferries will serve the busy Kattegat route while reducing vessel emissions by thousands of tonnes of CO₂ annually.
Each ferry will measure 129 metres by 30.5 metres, capable of carrying 1,483 passengers and 500 cars, boosting Kattegat route capacity by over 25%.
Stephen Casey, CEO of Incat Tasmania, emphasised the scalability of electric ferries for global markets.
“We’re not just building ships, we are building the future. Large-scale, low-emission transport solutions are not only possible, but are ready now.”
”The vessels address the market’s needs and requirements by utilising batteries, making this a very viable option for owners and operators looking to increase the sustainability of their fleets.”
Deliveries are scheduled for 2027 and 2028.
