Largest battery system yet for ice-class vessel

The marine battery manufacturer said that this contract for Germany’s new Polarstern polar research ship will be the largest battery system ever installed on an ice-class vessel.

“Polar research vessels operate at the absolute limits of what ships and onboard systems are expected to endure,” said Chris Kruger, founder and president of AYK Energy.

“To be selected for a project of such complexity and importance is a strong validation of AYK’s technology, particularly when safety, reliability and performance under extreme conditions are non-negotiable.”

Hybrid-electric power

The agreement, signed with hybrid propulsion integrator Wärtsilä, supports the development of a next-generation diesel-electric vessel for the Alfred Wegener Institute, with battery delivery scheduled for 2028 ahead of vessel entry into service in 2030.

The 16MWh Pisces+ battery system will sit at the centre of the vessel’s hybrid diesel-electric power architecture, supporting vessel power optimisation, emissions reduction and operational efficiency during sensitive scientific missions in Arctic and Antarctic environments. 

Designed for year-round operation in heavy ice, the new Polarstern will replace Germany’s existing flagship research vessel.

The battery system enables peak shaving and load optimisation while allowing quieter, low-vibration operations that minimise interference with onboard scientific equipment.

The project represents a significant step forward for vessel electrification in demanding maritime applications, demonstrating how hybrid diesel-electric power systems are increasingly shaping vessel power strategies across research, ferry and offshore fleets. 

Read our exclusive interview on how AYK Energy is helping pioneer the electric revolution