RINA signs MOU to promote battery-hybrid propulsion

The two parties have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to accelerate the transition, particularly in the ro-ro ferry segment, to low-emission vessels ‘by leveraging innovative technologies that enable the shift from traditional internal combustion propulsion systems to advanced hybrid battery solutions, both for newbuilds and, through retrofitting, for vessels already in service’, a joint statement said.

Hanwha brings hardware expertise from three companies to the table – Hanwha Power, Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Engine – which includes propulsion, energy storage and systems integration knowhow. RINA has the regulatory and certification background.

“By bringing together Hanwha Aerospace’s marine Energy Storage System and Hanwha Engine’s propulsion‑engine technologies through its own engineering capabilities, the company will deliver an advanced battery‑hybrid propulsion vessel,” says Hanwha.

“Hanwha Aerospace will enhance safety and reliability by applying aerospace energy technologies to marine ESS solutions. Meanwhile, Hanwha Engine will use its expertise in medium‑speed engines to optimise the propulsion system to maximise fuel efficiency and minimise carbon emissions.”

RINA will verify and certify regulatory compliance and technical soundness, as well as analyse market trends in this segment.

“This agreement reflects the increasing pace of innovation required to meet the maritime sector’s decarbonisation targets,” said Simone Manca, North Asia Marine vice president at RINA. “By combining RINA’s expertise in classification and regulatory compliance with Hanwha’s advanced technological capabilities, we are ideally positioned to promote safe, efficient, and scalable hybrid propulsion solutions for the global fleet.”

Kim Hyoung-Seog, head of the Marine Solutions Business Division at Hanwha Power Systems, said:“This collaboration brings together Hanwha’s core capabilities across energy‑equipment, battery systems, and engine integration creating strong technological synergy. Through our partnership with RINA, we will secure reliable technologies and strengthen our presence in the global eco‑friendly vessel market.”