ABB to power multiple electric ferries in Scotland

Polish shipbuilder Remontowa will build the vessels for delivery between 2027 and 2029, and it has hired ABB to supply its Compact Onboard DC Grid for the double-ended ferries, which will replace almost a quarter of CMAL’s fleet.

The 50m ferries, which also have back-up diesel generators, will serve nine routes on Scotland’s west coast, with capacity for 200 passengers and 24 cars at a time.

ABB’s grid system has been designed for vessels with space limitations, comprising a short circuit-tested marine DC switchboard and wall-mounted inverters, says CMAL.

ABB will also supply the shore connection technology at multiple CMAL ferry termials so that the vessels can use shore power while berthed.

“We appreciate ABB’s expertise in power, propulsion and electrification. Combined with our excellence in shipbuilding, we will make this a great set of vessels to advance low-emission transportation across the western Scottish ferry network,” said Michal Jaguszewski, Director of Commerce, Remontowa Shipbuilding.

“These ferries will bring increased capacity and the benefits of clean, fully electric propulsion to island and rural communities in Scotland”, said Jim Anderson, Director of Vessels at CMAL. “ABB’s experience in system integration and ensuring ship electrification and shore connection work efficiently together is well placed, and we look forward to taking delivery of the vessels.” 

The project has been partly funded by the taxpayer.